Here is the AFL sprint competition held during half-time at the 1985 Grand Final. The winner was Geoff Abblet competing for St Kilda. He had won the sprint three times previously while representing Hawthorn, and was second the previous year representing Richmond.
Ablett seems to be the official winner, but watching the video it is not clear who crosses the line first. The commentators are unsure and the video stops before the winner is announced. The prize money was $1000 for 1st, $300 for second and $200 for third.
Here is the player sprint competition held during half-time at the 1984 Grand Final. The winner was Doug Cox of Essendon. Geoff Ablett of Richmond came a close second. Geoff Ablett, competing for Hawthorn, won the first three grand final sprints in 1979, 1980 and 1981. The prize money was $1000 for 1st, $300 for second and $200 for third. See more about the GF Sprint.
Here is the player 100m sprint race held during half time at the 1983 Grand Final. Frank Marchesani (Carlton) was 1st, followed by David Palm (Richmond). See more about the GF Sprint.
Here is the player sprint competition held during the half time entertainment at the 1981 Grand Final. The winner was Geoff Ablett of Hawthorn. Geoff is the older brother of Geelong great Gary Ablett Snr. There was no competitors from Carlton and Collingwood as they were competing in the Grand Final game. Prize money was $1000 for 1st, $300 for 2nd and $200 for 3rd. See more about the GF Sprint.
