Clint Robinson OAM
One of The Greatest Kayaking Champions and The Most Successful Competitor in Australia Surf Lifesaving History
Growing up in country Queensland, Clint's athleticism was evident from a young age. At just 12 years old, he represented Queensland in both Rugby League and Surf Lifesaving. His sporting life was very much a family affair, with his father acting as his primary coach. Clint started dreaming of an Olympic Gold at this young age despite not knowing what sport he would represent. A short time later, he stopped Rugby League to focus on Surf Lifesaving.
In 1987, he won the Cadet Malibu Board Race at the National Surf Lifesaving Championships, which later led to an invitation to join the Australian Olympic Kayak squad in 1988.
Clint would then go on to win his first Olympic Gold at just twenty years of age.
Kayaking is Clint's greatest love, and he is known as one of the greatest kayaking champions of all time. He has represented Australia at five Olympic Games, won a complete set of Olympic Medals as well as a World Title, and has received a staggering 32 Australian Championship Gold medals.
Between 1991 and 1995, he mounted the World Championship podium five times to claim one gold, two silver and a bronze medal.
In 1999, Clint beat Ironman legend Trevor Hendy's record and became the most successful competitor in Australian Surf Lifesaving history. He received the Peter Lacey Memorial Award for being the most outstanding competitor of the Championships. In 2008, he took his career tally to 36 National Gold Medals. In addition to his many Surf Lifesaving accolades, he has also been honoured with the captaincy of many Australian Surf Lifesaving Teams. Also complimenting these achievements are his two World Surf Titles and two Ocean Ski World Titles.
From a Queensland country boy to an Australian Champion, he has proven that commitment and hard work could make a reality. His story captivates any audience, and his achievements and dedication to all he undertakes have proven to be an inspiration to all who know him.
In 2001, Clint was inducted into the Australian Institute of Sport's Best of the Best and the Queensland Sport Hall of Fame in 2009.
He was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his sporting achievements.
Clint is still actively contributing as head coach at Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club.