Australian Olympic team tracksuit worn by Linda McGill
Maker
Speedo International Ltd
Date1964
Object number00044293
NameTracksuit
MediumWool
DimensionsOverall: 1000 x 280 mm, 380 g
Clothing size: 33
Clothing size: 33
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis two piece team tracksuit is made from green wool, and bears the official Australian 1964 Tokyo Olympics team patch on the breast pocket and right hip, with a '33' patch on the right arm and right hip. The jumper-style tracksuit top features a short zippered collar and a high neck, while the pant design includes ankle zippers.HistoryTracksuits were first worn in the 1960s. They were generally made in plain dark colours, and used exclusively by athletes. In 1964, Adidas began to produce tracksuits as leisure wear, and these designs emerged as general fashion items in the 1970s. The tracksuit worn by Linda McGill would have functioned as a warm-up suit, marking a change from the robe worn by swimmers in the first half of the twentieth century.
SignificanceThe tracksuit was worn by Linda McGill at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 1964. It is representative of team sportswear designs produced by Speedo in the 1960s.