Eric Liddell

Date of Birth: January 16, 1902

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: February 21, 1945

Biography

Eric Liddell was a Scottish athlete, rugby player, and missionary, most famously known for his achievements as an Olympic runner. Born in China to Scottish missionary parents, Liddell returned to the United Kingdom for his education. He attended the University of Edinburgh, where his athletic talents began to shine. Liddell is best remembered for his performance in the 1924 Paris Olympics, where he won a gold medal in the 400 meters and a bronze in the 200 meters. His story was later immortalized in the Oscar-winning film “Chariots of Fire.” Liddell’s athletic prowess was matched by his deep Christian faith, which played a central role in his life decisions. Notably, he refused to compete in the 100 meters, his best event, at the 1924 Olympics because the heats were held on a Sunday, which he observed as the Sabbath. After his Olympic success, Liddell returned to China, where he served as a missionary until his untimely death in a Japanese internment camp during World War II.

5 Interesting Facts about Eric Liddell

1. Eric Liddell was born in Tianjin, China, to Scottish missionary parents.

2. He was known as the “Flying Scotsman” for his remarkable speed and competitive spirit.

3. Liddell’s refusal to race on Sundays stemmed from his strict observance of the Christian Sabbath.

4. He won his gold medal in the 400 meters with a then-world record time of 47.6 seconds.

5. Liddell’s final years were spent in a Japanese internment camp in China, where he continued to serve and inspire others until his death.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Eric Liddell

1. “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.”

2. “In the dust of defeat as well as the laurels of victory there is a glory to be found if one has done his best.”

3. “Circumstances may appear to wreck our lives and God’s plans, but God is not helpless among the ruins.”

4. “It is complete surrender.”

5. “We are all missionaries. Wherever we go, we either bring people nearer to Christ or we repel them from Christ.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As an athlete and missionary, Eric Liddell’s life was not driven by financial gain, and there is no record of a significant net worth.

Children

Eric Liddell had three daughters with his wife, Florence Mackenzie: Patricia Liddell, Heather Liddell, and Maureen Liddell. His family was evacuated from China to Canada before his internment in the Japanese camp.