The AFL grand final sprint is returning to its traditional straight-line 100m format across the MCG turf for 2023.
One representative from each of the 18 clubs will take part in the race, with Eagle Josh Rotham the only former winner in the field.
There will be two heats pre-game held from 12.15pm, before the eight finalists compete for the title of fastest man in the AFL from 12.38pm – not at half time as previous events have been held.
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This year, Coles will make a $5000 donation to Ladder, an organisation providing young people mentoring and support through the Ladder Program, on behalf of the race winner.
“While Collingwood and Brisbane battle it out for premiership glory on Saturday, the Coles Pre-Game sprint allows fans of all 18 AFL clubs to get behind their team on Grand Final day as they fight to be the first to cross the finish line,” AFL executive general manager Kylie Rogers said.
“The AFL is thrilled to have our valued partner Coles come on board and support the sprint this year and we can’t wait to see who will be crowned this year’s 100m champion.”
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Richmond remain the most successful club in the AFL’s grand final sprint with five winners – including last year’s fastest man in Hugo Ralphsmith.
Hawthorn and St Kilda’s Geoff Ablett remains the only four-time winner of the event (1979-81, ‘85) while then-Adelaide Crow Patrick Dangerfield is a three-time champion (2011-13).
GRAND FINAL SPRINT RUNNERS
Adelaide – Mitchell Hinge
Brisbane – Jaxon Prior
Carlton – Matt Owies
Collingwood – Josh Carmichael
Essendon – Nic Martin
Fremantle – Lachie Schultz
Geelong – Max Holmes
Gold Coast – Ned Moyle
GWS Giants – Harry Rowston
Hawthorn – Josh Weddle
Melbourne – Jed Adams
North Melbourne – Darcy Tucker
Port Adelaide – Jed McEntee
Richmond – Kamdyn McIntosh
St Kilda – Matt Allison
Sydney – James Rowbottom
West Coast – Josh Rotham
Western Bulldogs – Ed Richards
