Table of Contents
What language group is Cathy Freeman from?
Cathy Freeman was born in Mackay (Queensland) on 16 February, 1973. Her mother is of the Kuku Yalanji people of far north Queensland and along with Cathy’s grandmother was born in the Indigenous community of Palm Island. Cathy’s father was born in Woorabinda and is of the Burri Gubba people of central Queensland.
Is Cathy Freeman a full blood Aboriginal?
Both Cathy’s father, Norman Freeman, and mother, Cecilia, were full-blood Aborigines. Queensland, the northernmost state on Australia’s populous east coast, is passionate about rugby, especially rugby union.
Is Cathy Freeman an Indigenous Australian?
Freeman was born in Mackay in 1973. Always proud of her ancestry, Freeman hoped her success as an athlete would be an inspiration to all Aboriginal children. Family is important to Freeman. Her first coach was her stepfather, Bruce Barber.
What school did Cathy Freeman go to in Mackay?
Cathy Freeman
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | 16 February 1973 Mackay, Queensland, Australia |
| Education | Kooralbyn International school Fairholme College |
| Alma mater | University of Melbourne |
| Occupation | Australian sprinter/runner |
Who inspired Cathy Freeman?
Anne-Marie had severe cerebral palsy and passed away in 1990 but continues being Freeman’s biggest inspiration. “I remember as a 13-year-old there was a stage where I’d just had enough of running and was more interested in being a normal teenager,” she said.
Where was Cathy Freeman born and when was she born?
Catherine (Cathy) Freeman was born on February 16, 1973 in Mackay, Queensland in Australia and would become not only a world-class track star and Olympic gold medal winner but also a symbol of hope and unity for all of her country.
What kind of religion did Cathy Freeman have?
RELIGION: Religion had a strong place in the Freeman household. Cathy and her siblings where raised Catholic, and she prayed every morning and night throughout her childhood. (p.8)
Why was Cathy Freeman so important to Australia?
At that time the flag was not recognised as an official Australian flag. When Cathy won the gold medal in the 400 metre sprint at the 2000 Olympic Games, this very same act was seen as a moment for the nation, symbolising the Australian people’s desire for reconciliation and pride in her Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Who was Cathy Freeman’s coach at the Olympics?
Norman trained with Mike Danila, who later became Cathy’s coach as well. (p.32) Nike: Cathy’s major sponsor, through whom she met her husband Sandy Bodecker. (p.96) Cathy was one of the first athletes to test Nike’s new product, the ‘swift suit’, which she wore at the Sydney Olympics. (p.207)