Robert Kerr (athlete) facts for kids
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| Medal record | ||
|---|---|---|
| Men's athletics | ||
Representing  Canada |
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| Olympic Games | ||
| Gold | 1908 London | 200 metres |
| Bronze | 1908 London | 100 metres |
Robert Kerr (born June 9, 1882 – died May 12, 1963) was a super fast runner, also known as a sprinter. He was born in Ireland but became a Canadian. Robert Kerr won a gold medal and a bronze medal at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London. He was famous for his speed in races like the 100 and 200 metres.
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Robert Kerr's Early Life
Robert Kerr was born in Enniskillen, Ireland. When he was five years old, his family moved to Canada. They made their home in Hamilton, Ontario. Robert worked as a fireman, but he loved to run in his free time. He quickly became the best runner in his area.
First Olympic Try
In 1904, Robert used his own money to travel to Saint Louis, United States. He went there to compete in the 1904 Summer Olympics. Even though he was a great local runner, he didn't make it past the first races (called "heats") in the 60, 100, and 200 metres events.
Becoming a Champion Sprinter
After his first Olympics, Robert Kerr got even better. He set new Canadian records for many sprint distances. He won Canadian championships in the 100 yards in 1907. He also won the 200 yards race from 1906 to 1908.
Success at the 1908 Olympics
In 1908, Robert went to England and won both the 100 and 200 yards races at the British Championships. Later that year, the 1908 Summer Olympics were held in London. The crowd there cheered for Robert Kerr. They saw him as a hero from the British Empire.
He did much better than in 1904. Robert made it to the finals for both the 100 and 200 metres races.
- In the 100 metres final, he won the bronze medal. He finished third with a time of 11.0 seconds.
- The very next day, he ran the 200 metres final. Robert crossed the finish line first! He won the gold medal with a time of 22.6 seconds.
News of his amazing win made people in his hometown of Hamilton celebrate!
Life After Running
During the First World War, Robert Kerr served as an officer. He was part of a special group of soldiers called the Sportsmen's Battalion. Many athletes from his area joined this group.
After his running career, Robert stayed involved in sports. He coached running and soccer teams in Hamilton. He also worked as an official at the 1928 Summer Olympics and the 1932 Summer Olympics. At the 1928 Olympics, he saw another Canadian, Percy Williams, win the 200 metres gold medal. Robert also helped organize the 1930 British Empire Games in Hamilton.
Robert Kerr passed away in Hamilton when he was 80 years old. A park in his hometown was named after him to remember his achievements.
