Education

Barker was born in Sydney and attended Newington College (1895-1901) and the University of Sydney.

Career

He is described in the official Olympic history of Australia as "an outstanding all-rounder" and he played representative rugby union for New South Wales. In 1904, Barker was selected for the Street Louis Games, but injured an ankle playing rugby. He then repeated this feat in the 100 metres winning himself a second bronze medal.

A public subscription raised the funds for him to compete in Athens.

Achievements

• He competed for Australia in the 1906 Summer Olympics held in Athens, Greece in the 400 metres where he won the bronze medal.