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This NFU classic tells Peter Snell's story up to just prior to his triumph at the Tokyo Olympics (he had already won 800m gold in Rome and held the world record for the mile). Snell's commentary — focused, candid — plays over footage of training and racing. "It always gives a feeling of exhilaration to run in the New Zealand all black singlet." He offers insight into the methods of coach Arthur Lydiard (15 miles a day, 100 miles a week). Includes priceless footage of Snell running in the Waiatarua hills, through bush and leaping farm fences.
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I had the good fortune of meeting Peter Snell and his wonderful wife when they graciously came to Eugene from Dallas to appear at the Legends Mile which I had arranged as part of the Oregon coaching staff in 1987. My passion for track ignited in 1962 when I would watch Dyrol Burleson and dream of him out kicking Snell--never happened. While sore legs prevented Peter from participating in the Legends Mile with Ryun, Lindgren, Shule and others, he happily ran with the contestants the following day in a celebrity 5K. As luck would have it, a friend of mine shot a perfect picture of my 11-year-old son, Ryan, flying past Snell as they approached the finish. It took 25 years, but Peter Snell got out kicked--and it was by my son. WOW!! The blown-up picture of that moment, inscribed by Peter, continues to hang on the wall just above my desk. That little race is a super memory for my son and me, but I remain more impressed with the kindness of Peter Snell and his gentle and generous nature.
A champion and a great man motivated by a great coach in a period that had few peers great story and should be used as a motivational tool for all budding male runners and coachs. the detail given on Peters career and the way he approached his races has the true meaning of excellence for a great learning curve too the future of track running in New Zealand. cheers Jim Baird
What a marvellous record of this iconic NZ athlete, Peter Snell. I watched him make a new record at Lancaster Park in Christchurch in the 60's!
I live in Dallas Texas and I know Peter Snell. I was part of of Diabetic study he supervised. He is a courteous professional with a quick wit and gentle demeanor. He autographed a book and some photos for me.
Dave Douglas
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Short Film, 1962 (Full Length)
Snell sets world records in this earlier newsreel
Film, 1974 (Full Length)
NFU doco on the 1974 Commonwealth Games, featuring Lydiard commenting on a race
Film, 1950 (Full Length)
Coach Arthur Lydiard was a competitor in the 1950 British Empire Games
Television, 1984 (Full Length)
Other NZ world champions prepares for the Olympics
Finalist - Most
Outstanding Website
The ONYAs 2010 & 2011
Best Entertainment Website
Finalist – Website design
Qantas Media Awards 2009
NZ ON SCREEN 2012
This website has been made with funding from NZ ON AIR ›
The synopsis and credits are included
chris simpson
Posted at 10.59PM - 30.01.2012
SSOOOOO OASUM!!! that im related to this guy no..legend! he is my dads uncles cousin!! iv also met bill bailey!