Our First Olympic Hero – Part Two: The Lion of Athens

Our First Olympic Hero – Part Two: The Lion of Athens

April 15, 2026 · 31 min · Season 10 · Episode 28

About this episode

The episode discusses Teddy Flack's achievements in the 1896 Olympics and his place in Australian sports history.

Having already won two events at Athens in 1896, young Aussie athlete Teddy Flack throws himself at a third victory by entering the Marathon – and he’ll reckon the result ensures the success of the first modern Olympic Games. Despite Teddy’s historic wins, noble defeats and curious claims, in his time he’ll be a marginal character in Australian reporting – a stark contrast with modern Olympic heroes. See Forgotten Australia live! "Crashes, Chases and Crooks in Melton History" – as part of the Melton Heritage Festival. More info and free tickets: https://libraryevents.melton.vic.gov.au/event?id=209608 Forgotten Australia supporters get early ad-free access to all episodes, along with bonus shows and a podcast shout-out. To access a free trial, use these links and follow the easy steps. Cancel before the free-trial ends and you won't be charged. Continue to support from as little as $3 per month. Cancel any time. Patreon: patreon.com/forgottenaustralia Apple: apple.co/forgottenaustralia Want more original Australian history? Check out my books! They’ll Never Hold Me: https://www.booktopia.com.au/they-ll-never-hold-me-michael-adams/book/9781923046474.html The Murder Squad…

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Host: Forgotten Australia

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Books & works: They’ll Never Hold Me, The Murder Squad, Hanging Ned Kelly, Australia’s Sweetheart

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