Aussie Olympian thanks coach father in loving Facebook tribute

Three-time Olympian discus thrower Ben Harradine has taken to Facebook to thank his father for his unconditional support.

The Newcastle-born Indigenous athlete, who ranked 20 in the men's discuss throw today, shared a photo of himself and trainer Ken Harradine standing in the throwing cage at the Rio Olympic Stadium.

Mr Harradine Snr can be seen making an irreverent middle-fingered salute in the photo.

“We gave this year our best shot. We arrived here in one piece. It has been an emotional topsy-turvy year and we have battled on with pride,” Harradine’s caption reads.

“I am proud to represent my country in my third Olympic Games. I am thankful also for all of your support.

“I wish I could have done better for my dad, but he doesn't care, he is proud of me no matter what.

“Today #teamharradine was exactly where we wanted to be. Together. Father and Son. Much love to all #popsflipsthebird #scipmylo.”

A world number six discus thrower and Commonwealth gold medallist, Harradine has been documenting his travels around the world with his father since 2012.

Each photo has featured his father giving the finger and has been accompanied by hashtag #popflipsthebird.