Harry Hart

A true all-round athlete Henry Beltsazer “Harry” Hart was one of the best track and field competitors in South Africa for two decades. Between 1926 and 1946 Hart won six medals, including four gold, at the British Empire Games, along with more than 30 national titles. At the 1930 British Empire Games in Hamilton, Ontario he won gold in the discus and shot put, and bronze in the javelin. Hart also ran in the 120 yards hurdles in Hamilton, finishing fifth, as well as competing in the 440 yards hurdles and the hammer throw. Four years later at the Games in London, England, he added to his medal haul by once again winning gold in both the discus and shot, along with a silver in the javelin.

Hart was selected to compete in the shot put and decathlon at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics but did not start in either event. At the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, however, he did compete, finishing 11th in the shot put and decathlon, and 12th in the discus. Hart also had the honour of being the flagbearer for South Africa at the Opening Ceremony. Outside of athletics he was also the owner of the Royal Hotel in the town of Reitz in Orange Free State. Hart was friends with many Hollywood actors including Douglas Fairbanks, Errol Flynn, Clark Gable, and Johnny Weissmuller.

Personal Bests: SP – 15.32 (1931); DT – 44.96 (1931); Dec – 5697 (1932).