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| |  Monday, 9 July, 2001, 11:59 GMT 12:59 UK Why are the Aussies so good? London's Aussie population gathers at Wimbledon By BBC Sport Online's Saj Chowdhury at Wimbledon Should Pat Rafter win his Wimbledon final clash against Goran Ivanisevic then it would complete a hat-trick of high-profile victories for Australia in sport. The Lions were mauled on Saturday in the second Test while England suffered a humilating defeat at the hands of Australia in the first Ashes Test. As the Australians poured into Centre Court to watch their beloved Rafter, they explained why they have excelled in sport, not only in the last few days but also over the last 20 years.
Des and Tony from Melbourne, who had been queueing for 16 hours to get in to watch the Monday final, said it was the "spirit" of the people which gave them an advantage. "We are pretty passionate, it is always part of your life," said Des. "I suppose it's the Aussie spirit and if you're heart is in something than you give it your all," added Tony. Josh and Liam from Geelong said that sport was available to far more people back home. "There is a lot more opportunity than here, you can get right into a sport," said Josh. "I think it's getting better in this country but it should be free for all," said Liam.
"The only people who play these sports are at my boy's school," said Bill. "You never seen them playing in parks - back home my boy was playing cricket everyday and he could play anywhere. It's just snobbery here." | |
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