Dane Smith, an accomplished athlete from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, has made significant strides in race walking. He began his journey in athletics at a young age, influenced by his father, David Smith, who represented Australia in race walking at the Olympic Games. Dane first tried race walking as a teenager at Saint Peters Lutheran College in Brisbane.

| Season | Event | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Men's 20km Walk | B Bronze |
Dane follows a unique training regime focusing on quality over quantity. Unlike most race walkers who train up to 40 kilometres in one session, Dane breaks his sessions into 10 to 15-kilometre segments. This method allows him to accumulate around 120 kilometres per week, plus two gym sessions and a boxing session.
His notable achievements include winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. He was named Athletics Australia's Male Athlete of the Year in 2017 and University of Queensland Sportsman of the Year in 2016 and 2017.
Dane resides in Brisbane with his wife Katy. He holds a degree in Health Studies and Physical Education from the University of Queensland. Outside of athletics, he enjoys playing social netball.
Dane has faced significant challenges, including a hamstring injury during the 2018 World Race Walking Team Championships in Suzhou, China. He also struggled with mental health issues after the 2016 Olympic Games, contemplating suicide in 2017. His wife encouraged him to seek professional help, which he did.
Dane's sporting philosophy is "Never back down from a challenge." He has said that the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo would be his last Olympic Games due to the mental toll of solo training. However, he remains committed to his sport and aims to win a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
Dane's relationship with his father is both personal and professional. While they sometimes clash, their bond strengthens their coaching relationship. Dane dreams of surpassing his father's best time in the 20km event, adding a friendly rivalry to their dynamic.
Dane Smith continues to be an influential figure in race walking, balancing personal challenges with professional achievements. His journey reflects resilience and dedication, inspiring many in the field of athletics.
Dane Smith, an accomplished athlete from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, has made significant strides in race walking. He began his journey in athletics at a young age, influenced by his father, David Smith, who represented Australia in race walking at the Olympic Games. Dane first tried race walking as a teenager at Saint Peters Lutheran College in Brisbane.