Irish-born, Sam Ferris went to school in Glasgow and soon after his return to Northern Ireland in 1918 he enlisted in the RAF and served in India for four years where he first developed his interest in running. On his return home, he joined Shettleston Harriers and in his marathon début he finished second in the 1924 Poly race. He went on to win the event a record eight times (1925-29, 1931-33). With his first three victories he also took the incorporated AAA title. He competed in three Olympic marathons: 1924 (5th), 1928 (8th), and 1932 (2nd) and set British records with 2-35:58.2 (1925) and 2-35:27 (1927). After losing the record to Harry Payne in July 1928 he set his third British record two months later with 2-33:00 at Liverpool. He also won the silver medal at the 1930 British Empire Games (competed for England; Northern Ireland did not participate) and represented Ireland in the International Cross-Country three times (1925-27). After 32 years service he retired from the RAF in 1950 and for many years reported for Athletics Weekly on road running.
Personal Best: Mar – 2-31:55.0 (1932).
Great Britain