By Cameron Weston
PETER Norman is still Australia’s fastest man over 200 metres, but he will best be remembered for something he did while standing still.
Mr Norman, of Williamstown, died last week at the age of 62.
He stood on the podium at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, a silver medal around his neck, as American athletes Tommy Smith and John Carlos famously bowed their heads and raised black-gloved fists.
Mr Norman’s role, in what became known as the Black Power Salute, placed him in the frame of one of most famous sporting images of all time – and defined his life.
He wore a badge on his tracksuit in support of the protest.
“I stepped in to lend my support, anyone can stand in and get a picture taken and be part of an event. I am honoured to be commemorated in part of the celebration,” he said at the time.
Mr Norman ran 20.06 seconds to take silver in Mexico City, a record that stands to this day, 38 years after he crossed the finish line, as the fastest 200 metres ever run by an Australian.
A statement released by Athletics Australia described Mr Norman as a passionate man “who looked forward to the day his record would be surpassed”, and someone who remained dedicated to supporting Australian athletes.
The statement continued: “A widely respected member of the community, Peter most recently worked with Sport and Recreation Victoria, successfully attracting many international teams to Victoria”, for the Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
Mr Norman carried the Queen’s Baton through Williamstown before the Commonwealth Games.
“Peter will be remembered not only for his success as an athlete, and his humanitarian gesture in Mexico City, but for his service to athletics and the community and for his warmth and friendship,” the statement concluded.
Condolences and tributes for Mr Norman appeared last week in Melbourne newspapers, including one from Justin Madden, Victoria’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, which described him as “a true ambassador for sport”.
Mr Norman is survived by his wife, Jan, and daughters Belinda and Emma.
.Smith and Carlos were believed heading to Melbourne at the time of writing to be pall bearers at Mr Norman’s funeral yesterday at 1pm.
