The AFL Grand Final sprint is an annual event which usually takes place at half-time of AFL Grand Final. It was first held in 1979. There has also been a kicking competition. This year there was a women's sprint event for the first time.
2021 Winner: Josh RothamĀ (West Coast)
The 2021 Grand Final sprint was quite different this year, as only West Coast and Fremantle players participated, as WA's strict border rules made it impossible for all clubs to get involved. The race was held at quarter-time, with four Eagles players - Jack Petruccelle, Liam Ryan, Josh Rotham and Tom Cole - challenged four Dockers players - Liam Henry, Andrew Brayshaw, Luke Ryan and Ethan Hughes. The race was held around the 50m arc at one end of the ground, starting in a staggered position. The players looked like they should have kept to their lanes but there was a bit of mixing. It was a tight finish, with Josh Rotham just pipping Jack Petruccelle. Liam Ryan was third. According to the on-screen timer, the winner crossed the line in 10.9 seconds.
Finishing Order
- Josh Rotham
- Jack Petruccelle
- Liam Ryan
- Liam Henry
- Ethan Hughes
- Andrew Brayshaw
- Luke Ryan
- Tom Cole
See a video of the 2021 race
Related Pages
- AFL Sprint Winners List
- See all the videos of the races we could find.
- AFL half time mile race from 1977 & 1978
- AFL Grand Finalists
- Grand Final kicking competitions.
- About Sport in Australia in 2021
- Rugby League sprint race