Super League

Sam Burgess crowned SAS champion

by
Callum Walker
October 12, 2021

Sam Burgess has been crowned SAS Australia champion following a tense finale.

Five recruits, former NRL player Sam Burgess, dual Olympian Jana Pittman, Olympic medallist John Steffensen, Home and Away actor Dan Ewing and tennis legend Mark Philippoussis made it to the last episode.

With Pittman and Ewing falling at the last hurdle, Burgess, Steffensen and Philippoussis made it to the final, but only Burgess was selected to pass the entirety of the course, making him the winner of the show.

“There’s not many people that fit the mold. It takes a unique person to do a unique job,” Ant Middleton said.

He went on to say that that’s what joining the SAS is all about, “no glory, just getting the job done”.

Burgess had this to say on his success:

“When I agreed to do this course I set myself two simple goals;
1. Be totally honest with myself
2. Complete the course

“Throughout the experience, I grew enormously through pain and discomfort, through joy and teamwork, through fatigue and food deprivation but most of all by being vulnerable enough to share this, become better at understanding myself and in turn reveal true character.

“Thanks to @antmiddleton – @jason_carl_fox @ollie.ollerton and @billingham22b You’re all amazing men with a great outlook on life. We can all learn if we truly listen to words spoken.

“To all fellow recruits – congratulations on having the courage to say yes. I learned something new each and every day, so I thank you for that. And to the recruits standing next to me at the end, well done – your spirit and determination was unwavering.

“Finally – I am doing the work. Day by day, step by step. Hopefully continuing to inspire and show we can all rise.
Lots of Love,
Sam”