Geordie 1955

Geordie starts Samson's bodybuilding course

Geordie sees an advertisement for Henry Samson's bodybuilding correspondence course and signs up with enthusiasm. He commits to the training regimen and builds endurance and strength. His best friend Jean worries the time he spends on workouts might crowd out other things.

Geordie reaches 21 and keeps training

By the time he is 21, Geordie has grown tall and fit and continues Samson's plan diligently. The steady training turns him into a powerful young man. Jean remains skeptical about the value of the sport but supports him in her own way.

Tragedy and new role as gamekeeper

Geordie works as the assistant to his father, the head gamekeeper for the laird. During a violent storm, his father falls ill and Geordie carries him home over miles. The father dies of pneumonia, and Geordie is appointed the laird's new gamekeeper.

Hammer throwing suggested

Geordie receives a letter from Samson suggesting hammer throwing. He is curious about the new sport but unsure how well he will adapt to it. He begins to consider this new path as his next challenge.

Minister trains him in hammer throwing

The laird's near-miss with the minister reveals the minister's knowledge of hammer throwing and willingness to coach him. The minister agrees to train Geordie, teaching him technique and discipline. Geordie starts taking the training seriously.

First Highland games win

Under the minister's guidance, Geordie enters a Highland games event reluctantly. He has two poor throws at first, but Jean's unexpected appearance motivates him to push for a better final throw. He delivers the winning throw, shocking the crowd.

Olympic invitation

Two members of the Olympic selection committee visit Geordie and invite him to join the British team for Melbourne. He hesitates at the prospect of competing internationally but at last agrees to go. He prepares for the trip with mixed feelings.

Journey to Australia begins

Geordie travels to London to meet Samson before boarding the ship to Australia. The voyage leaves him unsettled and unenthusiastic about the training ahead. He tries to stay focused despite homesickness.

Helga's influence aboard the voyage

On the ship, Helga, a Danish shot putter, takes a liking to Geordie and helps lift his mood. He remains largely unaware of her romantic interest. Her presence adds a new dynamic to his journey.

Melbourne arrival, hat and accident

In Melbourne, Geordie goes sightseeing with Helga and buys a flamboyant hat for Jean. During the outing, a nearby accident occurs when a car pins a man beneath it. Geordie’s strength becomes publicly visible as he helps lift the car.

Newspaper fame from the car-lift

The car-lift is reported in the newspapers, boosting Geordie's fame across Melbourne. His sudden popularity brings attention and expectations from fans and officials alike.

Kilt at the opening ceremony

During the opening ceremony, Geordie insists on wearing his late father's Black Watch kilt. London officials push to enforce the standard uniform, and a telegram orders not to allow the kilt, but Lord Pauceton ignores it.

Geordie wins with world-record throw

Geordie initially fails with his first two throws. Remembering Jean's encouragement, he delivers a spectacular third throw that sets a world record and wins the event.

Helga's kiss and heartbreak

In the stadium, Helga rushes up and kisses Geordie in front of the crowd, leaving her heartbroken and Geordie bemused by the publicity. The moment becomes a sensational news story in its own right.