Timeline - Paralympics

Year

1980

Joe Egan led the Australian team in the opening ceremony

Just one member of the amputee team was allowed to march in the opening ceremony

In 1980, there was ne’er a blade runner to be seen

The start of the controversial re-run of the 100m Class C final at the 1980 summer Paralympics in Arnhem. Australian Joe Egan (3rd from right) controversially threw his starting blocks onto the track to disrupt the original running of the final when he was prevented from running after he had not been told he was in the race. After the race was run, Egan's protest was upheld and the race was re-run. Egan won the bronze medal. Also in the race was New Zealander John Eden (second from right), who would subsequently move to Australia in 1982 and compete for Australia at 4 Games. Image courtesy of Paul Bird from his personal collection.

But there was controversy nevertheless

Australian team members in their dormitory room during the 1980 summer Paralympics in Arnhem. Each athlete had a single or a bunk bed and a locker. This room was shared by 12 team members. Left to right: Mr Roberts (amputee team manager), Charlie Tapscott, Rene Andres (in wheelchair), Joe Egan (front), unknown on bed. Image courtesy of Paul Bird from his personal collection.

The accommodation wasn’t too fancy either

1984

Looking sharp in their opening ceremony clobber

Personal identity and accreditation card for Joe Egan

Egan gets bronze in a blanket finish in the men’s A4 100m

Relay gold and the first Paralympic gold medal by an Indigenous Australian

Did spectators pay extra for a track-side view?

1988

And away from the Village, young Koreans meet the Paralympians

Three Australians contested the 100m final for leg amputees

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