Eric Liddel (pict), pictured in the award winning movie Chariots of Fire, was known for shaking the hands of his opponents before he ran his track event, showing unusual sportsmanship. He was also a great rugby player. Here is how he showed this sportsmanship in a match against Wales.
'In January 1923..., the Scottish team traveled to Cardiff, where they had not been able to beat the Welsh team since 1890. Eric and A. L. (Gracie) were brilliant as the Scots bested the Welshmen 11-8 before a wildly partisan crowd. It seems, however, that Eric and his teammates had a way of projecting sportsmanship beyond themselves.
The Welsh team assigned two players to take Eric and A.L. out of the game. They were clipped, tackled by high-low combinations, kicked, and tripped all through the game. Each time an opponent stepped on Eric's fingers, Eric would grin.
But Eric and A.L. got faster and faster. Up in the stands the local fans were drunk, ugly, and anxious to see their heroes smash the two speedy Scots. Howls of rage erupted from the partisan crowd as Eric and A.L. took in three lightening goals in the closing minutes.
When the game ended, the Welsh fans ran onto the field. Ringleaders yelled, "Get the Scots!" An ominous moment ensued. The angry crowd could become violent at any moment, and police entered the field.
"Your chaps played ever so well," said Eric, extending his hand to the ringleader, eyes twinkling. Incredibly, the angry Welshmen picked up Eric on their shoulders and carried the victorious Scots off, while thousands began to cheer. Soon, a victory parade was moving around the track with athletes from both teams riding on the fans' shoulders. "Carry your chaps," said Eric, and they hoisted the Welsh team on their shoulders, too.
It was one of those unique sporting events that sets in stark relief the bad behavior of partisan crowds on less happy occasions, and it showed the power of Eric's witness.'
God's Joyful Runner, Russell W. Ramsey
"I believe that God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. When I run I feel His pleasure." This quote from Eric was also in movie Chariots of Fire. I am certain that the roots of his sportsmanship lies here.
