Ernest Carter

Ernest "Mick" Carter is best remembered less for his footballing craft and more for the blistering speed that saw him conquer Australia's most prestigious footrace. A local Richmond product, Carter made a solitary senior appearance for the Tigers in 1910 before stepping away from the VFL to pursue professional athletics, a move that culminated in him winning the 1912 Stawell Gift off a handicap of 11.5 yards. He eventually returned to the league with Carlton during the player shortages of the First World War, where his elite pace was utilised across the half-back line and in various utility roles. Carter played sporadically for the Blues over five disjointed seasons, often filling gaps in a war-depleted squad, and remains a unique sporting footnote as one of the rare VFL players to possess a Stawell Gift sash.