The Epic Saga of the 1904 Olympic Marathon: A Triumph of Human Endurance

The 1904 Olympic Marathon, held in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, was an extraordinary event that tested the limits of human endurance and resolve. The race, which took place on August 30th, 1904, was marred by extreme heat, dehydration, and even a wrong course, but it ultimately produced a thrilling and inspiring story of triumph.

The Wildest Race Ever: The Story of the 1904 Olympic Marathon

by Meghan McCarthy

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36974 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

The Race

The 1904 Olympic Marathon was the first marathon to be held at the Olympic Games. The course was approximately 25 miles long and started and finished at Francis Field on the campus of Washington University. The race began at 3:08 pm in front of a crowd of approximately 15,000 spectators.

From the outset, the race was dominated by American runners. Fred Lorz, a 21-year-old from New York City, took an early lead and held it for most of the race. However, with about 10 miles to go, Lorz collapsed from exhaustion and dehydration. He was helped to his feet by a spectator and continued running, but he was soon passed by Thomas Hicks, another American runner.

Hicks, who was suffering from severe stomach cramps, was given a mixture of strychnine and brandy by his trainers to help him continue running. He staggered and stumbled along the course, but he eventually managed to cross the finish line first, in a time of 3 hours, 28 minutes, and 53 seconds.

The Controversy

Hicks' victory was met with controversy, as it was later revealed that he had received illegal assistance during the race. The Olympic Committee disqualified Hicks, and awarded the gold medal to Lorz. However, Lorz later admitted that he had taken a shortcut during the race, and he was also disqualified. The gold medal was eventually awarded to third-place finisher, Etienne Gailly of Belgium.

The Legacy

Despite the controversy, the 1904 Olympic Marathon is remembered as one of the most memorable marathons in history. It was a race that tested the limits of human endurance and resolve, and it produced a thrilling and inspiring story of triumph.

The 1904 Olympic Marathon also had a lasting impact on the sport of marathon running. The race helped to popularize the marathon distance, and it inspired runners around the world to push themselves to their limits.

The 1904 Olympic Marathon is a story of human endurance, triumph, and controversy. It is a race that will forever be remembered as one of the greatest marathons in history.

The Wildest Race Ever: The Story of the 1904 Olympic Marathon

by Meghan McCarthy

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36974 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE