Daniel Batman 1981-2012

Daniel Batman 1981 – 2012

It is with sadness that Athletics Australia announces the passing of sprinter Daniel Batman (NSW) in a car accident in the Northern Territory.

One of Australia’s greatest track athletes across 100m, 200m and 400m, Batman donned the green and gold of Australia on seven occasions, including the 2000 Olympic Games in his adopted home town of Sydney.

Batman was born in Melbourne on March 20, 1981, and was raised in the southern Sydney suburb of Oatley.

He attended elite Sydney schools, Scots College and the Cranbrook School, where he competed in athletics and played for the Australian school boys rugby team.

Batman made his international debut at the 1998 IAAF world junior championships, where together with his 4x400m relay teammates he took home a gold medal.

He then competed at the 2003 and 2005 IAAF world championships, the 2003 and 2008 IAAF world indoor championships and the 2006 Commonwealth Games, as well as the 2002 and 2006 World Cups.

Domestically, Batman won a medal at the Australian Athletics Championships seven times, including two gold in the 200m in 2005 (20.76, w: -0.2) and 2008 (20.89, w:-1.2).

Described as well-liked, funny and engaging, Batman boasts personal bests of 10.19 (100m), 20.44 (200m) and 45.02 (400m), as well as the Australian under 20 4x400m relay record and the Australian indoor 400m record.

Affectionately known as “Batty” and proudly wearing a Batman tatto on his right arm, he was a very popular athlete around the track, a hard trainer and very courageous in competition.

A devoted father of three, Batman is survived by his children Destiny, Jack and Liberty.

Athletics Australia, its Board of Directors, management team and staff extend our most sincere condolences to Batman’s family at this time.

While our words today may not ease your sadness, the legacy left behind by this outstanding athlete will bring happiness for you and many others for years to come.

Batman’s funeral arrangements will be announced as they come to hand.