Who's Who in Running

This page is the place where you find information about runners (and their coaches) who have participated in the Olympics, set world records, won big races, or even those who have contributed to running in other ways.

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Index of Who's Who in Running

A

Akhwari, John Stephen

Tanzanian runner that was known as the last man in the Marathon at the 1968 Olympics. He arrived in the stadium a little more than an hour after the winner (Mamo Wolde). His leg was bloody and bandaged, and he was wincing with pain at every step. Later he was asked why he continued, as the was no chance of winning. To this question he answered: "My country did not send me to Mexico City to start the race. They sent me to finish the race."

Andersen, Albert (1891–1977)

Finished 20th in the 1920 Olympic 8K Cross Country race, and was on the Danish team that finished 7th. He also ran in the 10000m race, where he ran 33.03,0.

Andersen, Anders H. (1907–1996)

Won the Danish National marathon championship in 1934, 1936 and 1939. Plus Nationals on 20K in 1934-1938. He finished 10th in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic marathon (2:44.38).

Andersen, Jette (1945–)

Danish runner that started out as a long jumper, but later turned to the distance events, and came in 19th in the 1964 Olympic 800m run (2.15,2). Coached by her dad, she set national records on both 400m and 800m.

Anderson, Jon

1973 Boston Marathon winner.

Andersson, Arne

Gunder Hägg's friend, countryman and rival, Andersson set world records for the mile (4.01,6 in 1944), and on 1500m (3.44,9 in 1943).

Aouita, Said

The dominant middle-distance runner of the 1980s, Aouita won the 5000-meter gold in Los Angeles. He also set world records at 1500m, 2000m, 3000m and 5000m. In 1992 the "old lion" then set a indoor world record of 7.36,66 for 3000m.

Arzhanov, Yevgeny

Soviet 800m runner, "nosed" by Dave Wottle in the 1972 Olympics.

Audain, Anne

New Zealand standout who won most of the major races on the American road racing scene in the early 1980s. She also set a world record for 5000m on the track and won a Commonwealth Games gold in the 3000m.

B

Babington, John

Lynn Jennings' coach.

Bach, Gottlieb (1900–1973)

Finished 51st in the Amsterdam 1928 Olympic marathon. Won the Danish national title on the marathon in both 1925, 1927 and 1933.

Baden, Holger (1892–1966)

Ran for Denmark in the 12K Cross Country race at the Stockholm Olympics. He did not finish the race though. National champ in 1911 on 10000m.

Bannister, Sir Roger

Although he failed to medal in the 1952 Olympic Games, Englishman Roger Bannister made history when he ran the first sub-4 minute mile, a 3.59,4 on May 6th, 1954 at Oxford's Iffley Road track. Bannister also won the so-called "Mile of the Century" in his Empire Games showdown with Australia's John Landy, by less than a second in 3.58,8. Bannister became a doctor, was knighted, and headed Great Britain's "Sport For All" fitness movement.

Barrios, Arturo

Mexican-born runner, now a U.S. citizen. Barrios once held the world record for 10,000m (27.08,23 in 1989).

Barthel, Josy

The one and only gold medalist from Luxembourg at the 1952, when he won the 1500m.

Bayi, Filbert

Tanzanian runner, Bayi set world records for the 1500m (3.32,2) and the mile (3.51,0) plus won the silver medal in the 1980 Olympic steeplechase behind Poland's Bronislaw Malinowski.

Bedford, David

Colorful English runner, known for high mileage training schedules, Bedford once set a world record for 10,000m.

Belger, Mark

Villanova star. Qualified for the U.S. Team to the 1980 Olympics. Throughout High School (Mepham Hs, Long Island) and college he won more Penn Relays watches than any other runner has ever won.

Bennett, Charles

English runner that won the 1500m (4.06,0) at the 1900 Olympics.

Bikila, Abebe

Ethiopian great who won the Olympic marathons in both Rome (2:15.16,2, barefoot!) and Tokyo (2:11.11,2) in world record times. Bikila was paralyzed in a car crash in 1969 and died in 1973 of a brain hemorrhage.

Bitok, Paul (1970–)

Kenyan long-distance runner, who won two silver medals at consecutive Summer Olympics (1992, 1996) over 5000 metres. Bitok emerged in 1992 as a relatively unknown athlete. He qualified for the Barcelona Games at the Kenyan trials and defeated several world class athletes at the Bislett Games in Oslo. By the time of the Olympics he had established himself as one of the favourites. He narrowly lost the final to Dieter Baumann of Germany. A few weeks later he won the 5000m race in Zurich. In the following years Bitok did not match his performances of 1992. However, by 1996 he was back and won another silver in Atlanta. He also won two World Indoor silvers (1997, 1999) over 3000 metres behind Haile Gebrselassie.

Blake, Arthur

American runner that came in 2nd in the 1896 Olympic 1500m (4.35,4).

Blankers-Koen, Fanny

Winner of 4 golds in the 1948 London Olympics.

Bordin, Gelindo

Bordin came from behind to win the Seoul Olympic Marathon in 2:10.32. He also won the 1990 Boston Marathon.

Borzakovskiy, Yuriy (1981–)

Borzakovskiy was born at Kratovo, in the Moscow oblast. His greatest result was the victory in the 800m race at the Athens Olympics in 2004. He likes to sit back until the last 200 meters or so when he will use his great kick and endurance to catch up and often win. His late charge is well known in the track circles and somewhat reminiscent of the tactics of Great Britain's Steve Cram. In the Olympics he employed the same strategy, coming from behind in the last 150 meters to take victory and beat out 800 meter ruler Wilson Kipketer, who was leading with only 20 meters to go but then faded to third. Borzakovskiy's first major international success was the victory at the 2000 European Indoor Championships when he was only 18 years old. At the 2000 Summer Olympics he reached the final over 800m in which he made a tactical error and came only sixth. In 2001 he won the World Indoor title over 800m but decided not to participate in the World Championships in Edmonton. However, he was ranked number one in the world for 2001 with a time of 1:42.47. In 2002, Borzakovskiy ran the 400m at the European Championships in Munich but went out in the early stages. The following season he picked up a silver medal over 800m at the World Championships in Paris. In the 2005 World Championships he took silver in the 800m competition, overtaking everyone else but Bahrain's Rashid Ramzi on the final straight. At the 2006 World Indoor Championships he won a bronze medal.

Bowden, Don

The first American to run a sub-4 minute mile. He did this in May, 1957.

Bowerman, Bill

Former coach at the University of Oregon where he developed the Ducks into a noted distance power. Bowerman was credited for the "hard/easy" day format of distance training and helping to ignite recreational running in America.

Brace, Steve

Won the Berlin Marathon in 1991 in 2:10.57.

Brantly, Keith

U.S. road racer and marathon runner.

Bray, John

American runner that came home with a bronze medal from the 1500m race, at the 1900 Olympics.

Breitkreutz, Emil

American runner that took 3rd in the 800m (1.56,4) at the 1904 Olympics.

Browning, Ross (1924–1998)

Founder of the Road Runner Club of America, "Brownie" was a prominent figure in the building the road racing scene in the Mid-Atlantic and New Jersey, and Metropolitan area from New York to Philadelphia. He also started a road race statistical compilation of race times publication called the "Long Distance Log". Later on the magazine "Runner's World" took over this area of expertise. Browning was born and raised in Woodbury, New Jersey. He was an Olympian in the 1948 and 1952 Olympics in the 3000 meter steeplechase placing fourth in 1952 to Horace Ashenfelter from Glen Ridge, New Jersey. He was 1951 1500 meter Pan American Games Champion. He also won an NCAA title in the steeplechase. Browning won road races all over the country and traveled all around the world running races in a time when many runners retired after leaving college running. He ran at Villanova University under the famous coach "Jumbo" Elliot. He was one of the most versatile distance runners of his or any time, being able to run a 50 second quarter mile on a relay team or a 30 kilometers race winner at the famous "Around the Bay Road Race" in Hamilton (Ontario, Canada), the oldest race in North America. He won the famous "Run for Diamonds" 9 mile race in Berwick Pennsylvania 8 times. He won National Championships at road races and at Cross Country Championships. He ran a 2:31 marathon in the 1950's when he was in his prime after running the steeplechase in previous seasons. He trained on minimal training of 35-45 miles per week most of his career and still performed at National Class level at all distances. Browning was a great runner but maybe more famous for those he positively influenced with his love of the sport. He put on hundreds of races in his career. They might be cross country events, road races, track events, or trail races, but they were always fun and he would literally give one of his many many trophies away to the youngster or local area runner who would place in them. It is said that Browning might have had more trophies won in road running than any human being on Earth. He would charge 50 cents or whatever for the race and sometimes have 23 runners in the early days and then give out merchandise worth ten times the cost of the entry fee. His bright smile and his friendly demeanor was so contagious that everyone wanted to show up at Browning's race if not to just say "Hi". He impeccably measured each and every course and always welcomed everyone to come and join in. He coached and influenced thousands of high school runners in his life. His sense of humor and his devotion to the sport spanned over seven decades. If there were ever a hero of this sport, it was Harris Browning Ross, for his dedication to the sport of distance running in the United States at a time when running was not very popular, he literally made it popular. He was truly the grass roots developer of long distance running and escorted the sport into the Running Boom of the 70's.

Burfoot, Ambrose "Amby"

Winner of the 1972 Boston Marathon while attending Wesleyan University. Current editor of "Runner's World" magazine.

C

Cacho, Fermin

1992 Olympic 1500m champion.

Carius, Al

In 1966 Carius had the fifth-best time in the United States in the 3000m steeplechase with a time of 8.48. As an undergraduate at Illinois, he was a two-time Big Ten Conference champion in cross country, and he added three Big Ten two-mile titles in track. In 1965 he started coaching North Central's men's cross country and track and field programs, and was in 1993 and 1995 honored as NCAA Division III Cross Country Coach of the Year. Under his coaching his team have won 10 U.S. national titles and finished runner-up 11 times in 25 years of NCAA Division III competition, and they have finished out of the top three just once. Carius helped produce 71 All-Americans and four individual national champions in cross country and an additional 245 All-Americans and 23 national champions in track and field. In addition, Cardinal athletes hold six national records. Carius is also a member of the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame.

Carroll, Noel

Collegiate standout at Villanova, Irish-native. Carroll coaches and writes on the sport for the Irish Runner magazine.

Cerutty, Percy

The late Australian coach of Herb Elliott, Albie Thomas and other great runners from Down Under in the 1950s and 1960s. Regarded by many as an eccentric, Cerutty was infamous for his "killer" hill sessions in the steep sand dunes of his training camp at Portsea.

Champion, Emile

French runner that took 2nd in the 40.26K long 1900 Olympic marathon.

Chataway, Sir Christopher

Helped pace Sir Roger Bannister to history's first sub-4 minute mile.

Christensen, Christian (1876–1956)

Started out as a race walker, where he amongst others set the Danish national record on 100K race walk (11:39). In 1898 he moved into distance running, where he a year later won nationals in the mile. He participated in the 800m and the 1500m at the Paris 1900 Olympic Games.

Christensen, Herluf (1924–1970)

In 1948 this Danish runner had his breakthrough when he beat the unbeatable Niels Holst-Sorensen in a 800m race. He then qualified for the London 1948 Olympics where he started in the 800m, but he broke his leg and could not finish the race.

Christensen, Johannes (1889–1957)

Finished 29th in the Olympic Marathon (40.2K) at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. He was Denmark's 1st world class marathoner. He could have been selected to the Danish team in 1908 also, but at the qualifying race, he misunderstood the rules and did not drink during the race. This caused him to collapse towards the end, where he was more than 5K in front of number 2. He was the 1st Danish national champ on the official marathon distance (40.2K), and also the first Dane to go sub-3 hours on the Olympic marathon distance (42.195K).

Christiansen, Lauritz (1892–1976)

Came in 14th at the Olympic Cross Country race in 1912. He helped the Danish team finish 5th.

Cierpinski, Waldermar

East Germany's Cierpinski won the Olympic Marathon in Montreal (1976) and Moscow (1980), equaling Bikila's feat. In 1976 he was the first Olympic marathoner to finish in under 2:10.

Clarke, Ron

Great Australian distance runner of the 1960s, Clarke set a number of world records, including 5000m (13.16,6) and 10,000m (27.39,4) marks - both still Australian records 30 years after he ran them. Clarke was favored to win the Tokyo 10,000m (won by Billy Mills), but had to settle for a bronze.

Clayton, Derek

Australian marathoner, first to break 2:09. He placed 7th in the Mexico City Olympic Marathon.

Coe, Sebastian

Voted the "Runner of the Quarter Century" by Runner's World magazine, Great Britain's Coe set world records for 800m (1.41,73), 1000m and 1500m, as well as the mile. Coe was the only man to repeat as gold medalist in the 1500m (1980 and 1984). Coe was born in West London, but was brought up in Sheffield attending Tapton and Abbeydale Grange schools. He joined athletics team Hallamshire Harriers at the age of 12, and quickly became a middle-distance specialist. He was coached by his father, Peter Coe, who designed workouts specifically for his son. Sebastian Coe was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in 1982 and an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1990. He was created a life peer in 2000 as Baron Coe of Ranmore in the County of Surrey. In December 2005, Coe was given a Special award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards ceremony. He was appointed a Knight Commander of the British Empire in the 2006 New Year's Honours List for services to sport.

Coghlan, Eamonn

Former Villanova great from Ireland, Coghlan won the 1983 world championship 5000 meters in Helsinki - some consolidation for a pair of fourths in Olympic competition. In 1983, the "Chairman of the Boards" blazed a world-record 3.49,78 indoor mile at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. On February 20th, 1994, at Harvard University's indoor track, the 41-year-old Coghlan ran 3.58,15 - the first sub-4 minute mile ever by a master (40-years or over).

Conover, Mark

Winner of the men's Olympic Trials Marathon in 1988.

Corbitt, Ted

Marathoner and ultra-marathoner, Corbitt competed in the 1952 Olympic Marathon for the United States of America.

Corey, Albert

American runner that took 2nd (3:34.52) in the 40K long 1904 Olympic marathon

Cote, Gerard

Four-time Boston Marathon champion in the 1940s.

Courtney, Thomas

Won the 1956 800m at Melbourne by one second over Great Britain's Derek Johnson in an Olympic record time of 1.47,7. Courtney's win gave the Usa four straight Olympic victories in the 2-lap event.

Cram, Steve

Silver medalist in the 1984 Olympic 1500m, behind Sebastian Coe. Cram set three world records in 20 days in 1985: the 1500m (3.29,67); the mile (3.46,31); and the 2000m (4.51,39).

Cregan, John

American runner that took 2nd in the 800m (2.03,0) at the 1900 Olympics.

Cruz, Joaquim

Won the 800m at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles.

D

Dam, Jorgen (1941–)

Surprised everyone when he as a 18 year old won the Danish national title on cross country. While studying he pretty much stopped running, but in 1964 he won the cross country title again. The same year he ran his first track race. He entered in the 10000m, where he set a new national record (29.43,2). Came in 31st at the 1964 Olympic 5000m race. He also set national records on the 2000m, 3000m, and 5000m.

Dani, Nandor

Hungarian runner who finished 2nd in the 1896 Olympic 800m (2.11,8).

Daniels, Jack

Former research physiologist for Nike's Athletics West teams, now coaching at the State University of New York.

Danild, Fritz (1893–1951)

Ran on the Danish Olympic Cross Country team in 1912, but could not finish the race, due to an injury. Set a national record on the 10000m (34.01) in 1912.

De Castella, Rob

Australian marathoner who won the gold medal in the 1983 World Championship race. He also won titles in Japan's Fukuoka race and the Boston Marathon.

Dekkers, Michelle

The barefoot South African runner who won the 1989 Ncaa Cross Country title for Indiana.

Delany, Ron

The 1956 Olympic champ at 1500m, Delany was one of the first great Irish middle distance runners to run for Jumbo Elliott at Villanova.

Dellinger, Bill

Coach at the University of Oregon and of Alberto Salazar, Dellinger placed third in the 1964 Olympic 5000m.

Deloge, H.

French runner that finished 2nd in the 1500m (4.06,6) at the 1900 Olympics.

Demar, Clarence

Won the Boston Marathon 7 times (1911, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1927, 1928 and 1930). He also competed on 3 U.S. Olympic Marathon teams, although he failed to win a medal.

Diemer, Brian

Olympic bronze medal steeplechaser in 1984.

Dinsemo, Belayneh

Won the Rotterdam Maraton in 1988. He also hold the worlds fastest time on the maraton, with a 2:06.50.

Dixon, Rod

New Zealand Olympian, bronze 1500m medalist at Munich Olympics, and New York City Marathon champ in 1983.

Doherty, Ken

Former college coach, Penn Relays director and noted author of training books in the 1960s.

Doubell, Ralph

Won the 1968 Olympic 800m. Coached by legendary Franz Stampfl.

Drayton, Jerome

Canadian marathoner, won Boston in 1977 and placed 6th in the Montreal Olympic Marathon.

Dwyer, Fred

Marty Liquori's high school coach.

E

Ebert, Julius (1898–1993)

Finished 35th in the 1920 Olympic 8K Cross Country race, and was on the Danish team that finished 7th.

Edelen, Leonard G. "Buddy"

Former world record holder in the marathon (Britain's Polytechnic Marathon, 1963, 2:14.28,8), and the first American to go under 2:20. At the University of Minnesota, Edelen won Big Ten titles in cross country and track, but achieved his greatest fame after moving to England to train. Edelen trained in England and received his coaching advice from Fred Wilt via mail. He won the 1964 Olympic Trials on the notoriously hot, hilly Yonkers, New York course. He was the only one prepared for the heat on this day, were he won in an astounding 2:24.25,20 minutes ahead of the 2nd place finisher. Unfortunately, a sciatic nerve condition hindered his subsequent preparation for the 1964 Olympic Marathon in Tokyo. He managed though to finish 6th in Tokyo.

Elliott, Herb

Never beaten in the mile in his entire career, Elliott ranks as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time. He won the 1960 Olympic 1500m in Rome in the record time of 3.35,6 - nearly 3 seconds faster than the runner-up Michel Jazy of France. Elliott won 44 races in a row between 1954 and 1960.

Elliott, James "Jumbo"

Villanova's coach for 46 years, Elliott coached the likes of Delany, Liquori, Coghlan, Sydney Maree and many other world-class middle distance runners.

Elliott, Peter

English middle distance runner, Elliott emerged at the end of the Coe-Ovett-Cram era, and won a silver medal in the 1500m at Seoul.

Eyestone, Ed

Two-time U.S. Olympic Marathon team member, placed 13th at Barcelona. Chose to comment for Tv at the 1994 Bloomsday race instead of running, because as he said: "With this the money's guaranteed".

F

Fast, Ernst

Swedish runner that took 3rd in the 40.26K long 1900 Olympic marathon.

Flack, Edwin

The Australian winner of the 800m (2.11,0), and the 1500m (4.33,2) at the 1896 Olympics.

Fleming, Tom

Two-time runner-up at the Boston Marathon and tow-time Nyc Marathon champ (1973 and 1975). Later he became a coach and running store owner in New Jersey.

Fordyce, Bruce

Multi-time winner of South Africa's famous ultra - the "Comrades Marathon".

Foster, Brendan

English runner and 1976 Olympic bronze medalist at 10000m, Foster set world records for 3000m (7.35,2) and 2 miles (8.13,7).

Foster, Jack

New Zealand Olympic marathoner at Munich and Montreal, at the ages of 40 and 44! Foster also won a silver marathon medal in the 1974 Commonwealth Games contested in Christchurch in his homeland.

Fox, Terry

Terry Fox was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, but raised in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, a community outside of Vancouver on the west coast of Canada. An active teenager involved in many sports, Terry was only 18 years old when he was diagnosed with bone cancer and forced to have his right leg amputated six inches above the knee in 1977. The night before his operation, Terry read an article about an amputee who had competed in the "New York City Marathon". Indirectly that story, along with Terry's observations of the intense suffering of cancer patients, set the stage for what would ultimately become the most important decision of his young life. In 1980, Terry Fox inspired the nation by attempting to run across Canada on an artificial leg. He called this quest the "Marathon of Hope". Its mission was to raise money and awareness for cancer research. With little fanfare, Terry started his journey in St. John's, Newfoundland on April 12, 1980. Although it was difficult to garner attention in the beginning, enthusiasm soon grew, and the money collected along his route began to mount. He ran 43 kilometres a day through Canada's Atlantic provinces, Quebec and Ontario. It was a journey that Canadians never forgot. However, on September 1st, after 143 days and 5373 kilometres, Terry was forced to stop his run outside of Thunder Bay, Ontario because the cancer had reappeared in his lungs. An entire nation was stunned and saddened. Terry passed away on June 28, 1981 at age 22. The heroic Canadian was gone, but his legacy was just beginning.

G

Galloway, Jeff

Born in Raleigh, North Carolina, Jeff started running in high school and was state champion on the 2-mile. He attended Weslyan University and was All-American in Cross Country and track. He made it to the 1972 Olympic Games in the 10,000m. In 1973 he set an American record in the 10-mile and represented the U.S. as a member of the U.S. National Track and Field Team in Europe, Russia and Africa.

Garcia, Salvador

Won the 1991 Nyc Marathon.

Gareau, Jacqueline

1980 Boston Marathon champ.

Gebreselassie, Haile

At the first indoor race of his life, in 1996, the Ethiopian smashed the world record for 5000m by a massive 9,4 seconds. Then in February 1997 he became the first man to run a sub-13 time indoor as he ran 12.59,04 at the Dn Games in Stockholm.

George, Walter

English distance star, late 1800s.

Gibb, Roberta

Sculptor, and the first woman to finish the Boston Marathon.

Golemis, Demetrius

Greek runner that came in 3rd at the 1896 Olympic 800m.

Gomez, Rudolfo

One of the first elite Mexican road racers and marathoners, Gomez (2:09.33) placed 4 seconds behind Salazar in their 1982 "Nyc Marathon" duel.

Groves, Harry

Longtime, colorful coach at the Penn State Nittany Lions, Groves worked with numerous standouts of the early 1970s.

Guerrouj, Hicham El

Unbeaten apart from the Olympic final, where he unfortunately fell at the bell when preparing to challenge Noureddine Morceli. Went on to end Morceli's four-year winning streak at the Iaaf Grand Prix final, when covering the last 800m in 1.47,1. The world's fastest of 1996.

Guillemot, Joseph

Guillemot competed with Paavo Nurmi of which one of them was the best distance runner of the Olympic Games in Antwerp 1920. This very short Frenchman beat the inexperienced Finn in the first event, 5.000 meters. Guillemot was even younger than Nurmi, only 20 years at those days. Today, he is still the youngest gold medalist in this event. In 10.000 meters he didn't have any chances against Nurmi, but took clearly the silver 3,6 seconds ahead of Briton James Wilson. Guillemot was very exceptional - not only because of his running talent or the fact that he quit at 24 year's age - because his heart was located at the right side of his chest.

Guldberg, Mogens (1963–)

One of the fastest distance runners in Denmark ever. He had his finest results indoor, where he reached 5 European Champs finals. He set outdoor Nordic records on the 1500m, mile, and the 2000m. He has also won 13 national titles. In the 1988 Olympics he ran in the 1500m, where he ran 3.39,86.

H

Haikkola, Rolf

Lasse Viren's coach.

Hall, David

American runner that took 3rd in the 1900 Olympic 800m.

Hansen, Rudolph (1889–1929)

Danish distance runner, that finished 8th in the 1920 Antwerp Olympic Marathon (2:41.39,4).

Hansen, Rudy C. (1888–?)

Won the Danish nationals in the marathon in April 1908, and on that result he qualified for the 1908 Olympic Games in London, where he took 26th in 3:53.15,0.

Hansen, Tom B. (1948–)

The greatest Danish middle distance runner since Gunnar Nielsen (1952–1956). He had a very strong finish. He was coached by his dad, and as a 16-year old he won his first Danish Junior National title on 1000m. He won his first real National title on the 1500m 4 years later, the same year he traveled to Mexico, to compete in the Olympic 1500m race. He had his international breakthrough in Malmö, Sweden where he beat several world class runners in the "Gunder Hägg-Mile" (4.01,7). His time was a Danish Junior National record, that lasted for 25 years. He was among the 10-12 best in the world on the 1500m in 1972 and 1976. He reached the semifinal at the European Championship, 1971. He finished 10th in the Olympic final in 1972, and won silver on 1500m at the European Championship, 1974. Seven times national champ on the 1500m and 2 times national champ on the 800m. Was also selected to compete in the 1976 Olympic Games, but got injured.

Hearn, Lacey

American runner that captured a bronze medal on the 1500m at the 1904 Olympics.

Hemery, David

Won the 400m hurdles at Mexico City in 1968.

Heritage, Doris Brown

The first American to win a World Cross Country title. Totally she won 5.

Hicks, Thomas

French winner of the 40K long 1904 Olympic marathon (3:28.53).

Hissou, Salah

From Morocco Hissou capped a quiet season with a fine run in the World Cross Country Championships in Cape Town to split the top two Kenyans.

Holst-Sorensen, Niels (1922–)

This Danish IOC member and fabulous runner finished 8th in the 800m race at the 1948 London Olympics, when he ran 1.53,4. As a 18-year old he set a Danish national record on the 400m (48,6). Won national titles on both the 400m and 800m in 1943-1947. His 1943 800m time was the best in the world that year, and his 400m time in 1944 was the 2nd best in the world. Won the European Championship on 400m and took silver on 800m in 1946.

Horwill, Frank

Senior British Athletics Federation Coach. Co-author of "The Complete Middle Distance Runner," and author of "Obsession for Running".

Hussein, Ibrahim

Three time Boston Marathon champion.

Hägg, Gunder

Swedish distance star of the World War II era, Hägg established seven world records in his career, including a 4:01.3 mile in 1945. In 1946 he was suspended from amateur competition (along with Arne Andersson) for professionalism.

I

Irvine, Sister Marion

1984 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier, who set 85 U.S. National age group records.

J

Jenkins, Charlie

Villanova runner and Olympian.

Jennings, Lynn

Winner of the 1984 U.S. Cross Country Nationals.

Jensen, Axel (1899–1968)

A world class Danish marathoner, who ran in the 1920 Olympic Marathon, but collapsed with 5K left of the race. Won the great Polytechnic Harriers Marathon, London in 1923. In 1923 this race was the unofficial world championships, and Jensen came in 13 minutes in front of the runner-up.

Jensen, Carl (1888–1965)

Ran on the Danish Olympic Cross Country team in 1912, but could not finish the race, due to an injury. Set national records on 1500m (4.22,4), 3000m (9.29,4) and 5000m (16.26,0) in 1909.

Jensen, Jorgen (1944–)

Won several Danish junior nationals, plus 8 real national titles (5000m, 10000m, 20K, plus several on the marathon). He ran in both the 1972 and the 1976 Olympic marathons. In 1972 he came in 30th when he ran a 2:24.00,2 and in 1976 he finished 28th with an 2:20.44,6

Jensen, Kai (1897–?)

Won the Danish Nationals on the 400m in 1923, 1924 and 1926. He also won nationals on the 800m in 1924, and that year he ran on both distances at the 1924 Paris Olympics.

Jones, Steve

Corporal and technician at the Royal Air Force.

Jonsson, Jon (1896–1981)

Finished 28th in the 1920 Olympic 8K Cross Country race, and was on the Danish team that finished 7th. He also raced in the 5000m, but did not finish the race. Born in Iceland, but moved in 1918 to Copenhagen, where he had his break-through in running.

Jorgensen, Erik (1920–)

This Danish runner captured the national title on the 1500m in 1946-1948 and also on 800m in 1948. Set a new national record on the mile in 4.12,0 in 1947. He finished 10th in the 1500m race (3.56,0) at the 1948 Olympics.

Jorgensen, Henrik (1961–)

One of the greatest Danish distance runners ever. Raised in a running family Henrik had his breakthrough as a 17-year old, when he ran a 10000m on 29.36,6. The year after, in 1980, he set a national record when he ran 29.00,3. Won the 1988 London Marathon (2:10.20). Finished 19th in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Marathon, and 22nd in the 1988 Olympic marathon. He also set a national record on the 5000m (13.27,76).

Jorgensen, Julius (1880–1937)

Danish long distance runner. Took 23rd in the Olympic Marathon in 1908 (3:47.44,0), he also competed in the 5 mile olympic race, where he ran 28.08,8.

Juantorena, Alberto (1950–)

Cuban athlete. Won Olympic gold's at Montreal in both the 400m and 800m.

Junren, Ma

Chinese coach. His superteam of women runners were dubbed "Ma's Army".

Junxia, Wang

The 1996 Olympic 5000m champion.

K

Kaerlin, Gert (1950–)

As a 21-year old Kaerlin won his first Danish national title (on the 5000m). Later he won the cross country crown several times, plus 5 more times on the 5000m. At the Munich 1972 Olympics he ran in the 5000m (14.39,2). Set 3 national records on the 3000m.

Kaggestand, Johan

Grete Waitz's coach.

Kee-chung, Sohn

Korean who won the 1936 Olympic marathon in Olympic record time of 2:29.19,2 but was forced to run for Japan.

Keino, Kip

Winner of the gold medal in the 1,500m at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. At the same olympics he took 2nd in the 5,000m. Four years later in 1972 in Munich he took gold in the steeplechase and silver in the 1,500m. Fours years before his first Olympic medal, Keino was a policeman in Kenya. While on patrol once, he came across 3 starving orphans. He adopted them, the first of many such adoptions. Now he has nearly 100 children living with him at his small Kenyan farm. His sons runs for the Kenyan team today.

Keino, Martin

Probably the best all-around scholastic distance runner in America in 1990. Starred at various distances in all the national-level meets; including double victories (Mile/3000) in both the 1989 and 1990 Volunteer Track Classic (Knoxville) where he lead his team to 1st place among 190 teams from 16 states, and also back-to-back steeplechase victories at the Golden South (Orlando). He was also one of the nations best cross country runners, where he took 4th in the NCAA Cross Country as a Junior in 1993 and 1st as a Senior in 1994. He has twice won a record 3 events (1500m, 5000m, 3000m steeplechase) in the Pac-10 Championship, and was ranked 10th in the world for the mile in 1996. Martin Keino is son of the legendary Kip Keino.

Kennedy, Bob

Won the NCAA cross country title as a freshman at Indiana. Since that time, Kennedy has progressed to win dozens of collegiate and national championships at the middle distance track events from 1500 to 5000 meters. Kennedy finished sixth in the 5000m final at Atlanta. Kennedy was the first American to break 13 minutes for 5000 meters.

Kipketer, Wilson

Kenyan 800m ace, that moved to Denmark at a young age. He has both won the outdoor and the indoor world champs in the 800m. He also holds the indoor 800m world record, which he lowered twice at the World Indoor champs in Paris, 1997. First in a heat, and then in the final. Although he was able to compete for the Danish Athletic Federation at Iaaf events since 1995, he did not have a Danish passport at the 1996 Olympics, and this forced him to miss the Olympics for that reason. As a young man Kipketer attended the famous St. Patrick's school in Kenya, where he was coached by an Irish missionary brother Colm O'Connor. He is a graduate of electronic engineering.

Kirui, Ismael

Individual bronze and team gold medals for Kenya in Cape Town - his ninth and tenth medals in the World Cross Country Championships.

Koech, Paul

Winner of the 4th annual Nairobi International Cross Country race. Named the new "Kenyan King".

Kouros, Yiannis (1956–)

Yiannis Kouros (born in Tripolis, Greece) is a Greek/Australian ultramarathon runner based in Melbourne. He is sometimes called the "Running God" or the "Pheidippides Successor", as he is undefeated in any continuous world-class ultramarathon competition over 100 miles. He holds every men's world record from 100 to 1000 miles (200 to 1600 kilometers), and from 1 to 10 days. In 1991, Yiannis starred as Pheidippides in the movie "A Hero's Journey" about the history of marathon running. Yiannis has also contributed many literary and musical works, including over 1000 poems (several of which appear in his book, "Symblegmata") and a book, "The Six-Day Run of the Century". Tributes to Yiannis come from the world over, including from the Indian ultrarunner Arun Bhardwaj who named his son Yiannis.

Kuscik, Nina

First official women's champ with her 1972 "Boston Marathon" win, Kuscik was a two-time "New York City Marathon" champ.

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Ladoumegue, Jules

French miler of the 1930s.

Landy, John

The second man to break the 4-minute mile barrier, Australia's "Gentleman John" brought the world record down to 3.57,9 less than two months later in Finland. Landy won a 1500m bronze medal in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Ran between 4.02 and 4.03 on the mile six times, when he in 1953 tried to go sub-4.

Larsen, Gerd (1942–)

Surprised everyone, in 1962, by running 1.53,8 on his first 800m with barely any practice. The Dane with the long legs, had a strong 200m finish, but suffered under many injuries. He was unconventional in his ways of practicing, He was constantly experimenting. One day he went out and did a 10x10k practice, on one day! He was a pioneer in bringing Arthur Lydiard's principles to Denmark. He was a finalist (finished 12th), on the 1500m, plus semifinalist on the 800m at the European Championship, 1971. One year later he set a Danish national record on the 1500m (3.39,4) plus he reached the semifinals at the Olympic Games in Munich. Competed in many other international races, the World Cross Country Championship 1973, Indoor European Championship 1968 and 1969. Three time national champ on the 800m, 2 time national champ on the 1500m, plus winner of Cross Country Nationals in 1965, 1967 and 1969 He still runs and has won numerous Masters races including several national champs. In the 90s he started rowing, where he won the World Masters Championship in 1996.

Lauridsen, Johannes (1930–)

Danish runner who finished 41st at the 1960 Olympic Marathon, where he ran 2:32.32,2. He won the national title on Cross Country in 1956.

Lebow, Fred

New York Road Runner's President who died in 1994, Lebow promoted big-time mega-marathoning at the helm of the "New York City Marathon".

Lenihan, John

Winner of 1991 World Mountain Running Championship in Zermatt, Switzerland. 9 times winner of the race up Carrauntoohil (Ireland's highest) and multi Irish Champion. Although a mountain running specialist - winner of the 1989 Snowdon International - he also won the Irish Half Marathon championship twice and featured on the Irish Cross Country team.

Lermusiaux, A.

French runner that captured a bronze medal in the 1500m (4.36,0) in the 1896 Olympics.

Lightbody, James

American runner that won both the 800m (1.56,0) and the 1500m (4.05,4) at the 1904 Olympic Games.

Limmer, Paul

The force behind powerful Mepham Hs boys and girls teams (All-Americans, New York State, and National Champions). His Distance Medley Relay team was the first American team to win the Dmr at the Penn Relay's in more than 10 years, when they won in 1993.

Lindgren, Gerry (1946–)

Considered the world's greatest high school cross country runner of all time. Lindgren did an exceptional amount of training, by his junior year he was running 150 miles a week. Once he even ran 250 miles in one week. He is a legend from Spokane (Usa/Washington) where he grew up and ran for Rogers High School. As a junior in high school he ran a 2 mile in 8.40 and a 1 mile in 4.01; a month later he ran the still-standing 13.44 5k high school record which brought him into the Olympics. You may remember him from his loss against Prefontaine in the meet between Washington and Oregon (it is also in the movie).

Lindsay, Herb

American road racer virtually unbeatable from 1979 to 1981. "Runner Magazine" awarded him in 1979 and 1980 with the Road Racer of the Year award.

Liquori, Marty

He first rose to fame when he became the third American high schooler to break the four minute mile by running a 3:59.8. Marty Liquori attended Villanova University where he was coached by the late Hall of Famer Jumbo Elliott. While running for the Wildcats, he won three consecutive Ncaa mile run titles (1969–71), also capturing the Aau mile run titles in 1969 and 1970. Won the famous "Dream Mile" against Jim Ryun at Franklin Field in 1972. In all, he won 14 national titles ranging from the mile to the 5000-meters. He competed in the 1968 Olympics at the tender age of 19, placing 12th in the 1500-meters. He won the same distance at the 1971 Pan Am Games and was second in the 5000-meters at the 1977 World Cup. He was ranked number one in the world twice at 1500-meters (1969 and 1971) and once at 5000-meters (1977). Set a 5000m American record, but injuries and bad luck limited his Olympic appearances to Mexico City. Liquori also co-founded the Athletic Attic Track Club and is still active in the sport as an author and television commentator, working with ABC-TV at the 1972, 1976, and 1984 Olympic Games.

Lodal, Olaf (1885–?)

Danish distance runner, who finished 30th in the 1912 Olympic marathon (40.2K in 3:21.57,6).

Lopes, Carlos

Portugal's gold medal winner in the 1980 Los Angeles Olympic Games with a 2:09.21 at age 37. Lopes also set a world marathon record in 1985, won three World Cross Country titles, and notched a silver in the 1976 Olympic 10000m behind Lasse Viren.

Loroupe, Tegla (1973–)

Long-distance track and road runner, and a global spokesman for peace, women's rights, and education, Loroupe holds the world records over one hour, 20, 25 and 30 kilometres and previously held the world marathon record. She is the three-time World Half Marathon champion. She was the first African woman to win the "New York City Marathon" in 1994. She has won marathons in London, Boston, Rotterdam, Hong Kong, Berlin and dozens of other cities. In 2006, she was named a United Nations Ambassador of Sport by Secretary General Kofi Annan. She is an International Sports Ambassador for the IAAF and for Unicef. In 2003, Loroupe created an annual series of "Peace Marathons" sponsored by her Foundation "Peace Through Sports". She has established a school and orphanage for children in Kenya.

Lovelock, Jack

The 1936 Olympic 1500m champion from New Zealand, Lovelock also set a world record for the mile (4.07) during his career.

Lydiard, Arthur

New Zealand's most famous coach, Lydiard's trademark approach (base-building, hill phases and bounding drills) to middle and long distance running still holds great sway in modern training circles. Snell and Halberg were his most famous Olympic runners. In the 1940s, Arthur Lydiard, a former rugby player, now overweight and working on the line at a New Zealand shoe factory, decided he had to make a change in his own life. He decided he would try to run off the excess weight. He took to the open New Zealand roads and embarked on a conditioning program of long, slow runs. Over the months he lost weight. Over the years he became addicted to running and discovered a long-hidden competitive spirit. He began to wonder how he might fare in a marathon and soon Lydiard the jogger became Lydiard the racer. He eventually came to represent New Zealand in the 1951 Commonwealth Games.

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Madsen, Axel (1899–1988)

Won the Danish national title on the marathon in 1930, and ran in the Amsterdam 1928 Olympics.

Maher, Peter

Irish-Canadian Olympian and sub-2:12 marathoner.

Maree, Sydney

In 1985 he broke the American record at 1500m (3.29,77) and 5000m (13.01,15), both within one second of the world records at the time. He's also a two time U.S. Olympian. In 1985 he was coached by the legendary Haverford (Division III) coach Tom Donnelly.

Markersen, Christian (1908–1982)

Three time Danish National champ in Cross Country. He set a Danish national record on the 1500m, when he ran 3.58,1 in 1932. He also competed in the 1932 Olympic Games on the 1500m (4.08,0).

Meyer, Elena (1966–)

South African runner who ran the fastest time in the world in 1991 at 3,000 and 5,000 metres, but was unable to compete in international events until 1992, when South Africa was readmitted from 16 years in isolation in time for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. At that Olympics Meyer finished runner-up to Derartu Tulu, from Ethiopia, in the 10,000 metres, black and white Africa symbolically sharing a track and a celebration. Since then, Meyer's career has suffered interruptions through injury and marathon near-misses, although she did win the world half-marathon title and World Cup 10,000 metres in 1994. She has finished second twice and third once in the Boston Marathon and a third in Chicago. Her best time is 2:25.15, set in her first marathon.

Mills, Billy

Born on an Sioux Indian reservation in South Dakota, Mills's Olympic story is the stuff legends are made of. He won the 1964 Tokyo Olympic 10000m with a 46-second PR and a heroic homestretch gallop. Mills also set a 6-mile world record in 1965.

Mimoun, Alain

Algerian-born French distance runner who often placed second to Zatopek. Mimoun won the 1956 Olympic Marathon.

Misner, Bill

On October 4th, 1988, Bill Misner, then age 48, accepted an indefinite sponsorship from New Balance Shoe Company in Boston (USA/Massachusetts). Nine years and 52 days later (at age 57), on Friday, November 21st, 1997, he completed 24,902.5 miles, or a distance that is equal to the distance around the planet Earth! Total mileage accumulations per year running varied from as high as 4400 miles in 1988 to as low as 800 in 1996. During those 9+ years running, Mr. Misner won 3 masters Usa National Championships, 2 at 50 miles and 1 on the track at 800 meters (relay)! In 1997, he recorded more miles than any other male runner in the Internet's "Million Mile Ultra Race", a contest to see who can run the farthest. Misner is only runner on record (to date) who reports by physical log entries to have run the planet in one brand of running shoes. It took over 70 pairs of running shoes from New Balance to complete his mission around the planet. Like to run that much? Time involved takes as little as 2 hours per day to as much as spending the whole day running, running, running! Running the planet Earth is very, very big when one sets out on foot... The cost is only 70+ pair of running shoes, a few overuse injuries, and about 3542 hours spread spent over a 9-year time-span to actually cover running the planet.

Moller, Lorraine

Native New Zealander, Olympic Marathon bronze medal winner at Barcelona and 1984 "Boston Marathon" champ.

Moorcroft, Dave

Holder of the 5000m world record from 1982-1984. In the summer of 1982 he broke the existing world record by more than five seconds, and he was less than a half second of becoming the first man in history to run the distance under 13 minutes. At the 1984 Olympics he made it to the 5000m final, but he was not fully recovered from a stress fracture of the leg, plus a attack of hepatitis. He barely avoided being lapped by the winner Said Aouita of Morocco.

Moore, Kenny

Like Kardong, a man who has given much to the sport of running at several different levels. A two-time Olympic marathoner (1968 and 1972), the former University of Oregon runner placed fourth in the Munich Games. Many of his articles written for "Sports Illustrated" over the years are regarded as some of the best ever on running. Moore appeared in the 1982 movie "Personal Best".

Morceli, Noureddine

Heading towards the year 2000, Morceli of Algeria is arguably the greatest middle distance runner of his time. To write down his world records is to tempt fate - Morceli will most likely better them between the time they are written and the time they appear in print.

Mota, Rosa

Portugal's Mota won a bronze medal at the 1980 Los Angeles Olympic Marathon, then struck gold at Seoul. She also won the "Boston Marathon", and the European Marathon Championships three times.

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Nakamura, Kiyoshi

Japanese coach of Seko and Wakiihuri, stern taskmaster Nakamura died in 1984 in a drowning accident rumoured by some to have been a ritual suicide to atone for Seko's Olympic "failure" in 1984.

Nebiolo, Primo

Iaaf president.

Newton, Albert

American runner that came in third in the 40K long 1904 Olympic marathon.

Newton, Arthur

South African ultra-distance runner and 4-time Comrades winner in the 1920s and 1930s.

Newton, Joe

Americas top High School Cross Country coach. Called "The Master of Motivation".

Nielsen, Artur (1895–1988)

Won the Danish nationals on the 1500m in 1920. Competed in the 1920 Olympics in both the 5000m and the Cross Country race, but he did not finish any of them.

Nielsen, Gunnar (1928–1985)

Great Danish runner that finished 4th in the 1952 Olympic 800m, in the same time as the bronze medalist: 1.49,7. In 1954 he finished 2nd at the European Champs on the 1500m, that was won by Roger Bannister. In September 1954 he set a world record on 880 yards (1.48,6). In 1955 he set an indoor mile world record (4.03,6) at the Wanamaker-mile race in Madison Square Garden. He later became the first Dane to run under 4 min on a outdoor mile. Winner of several national titles on 800m, 1500m and even one in the Pentathlon. Finished 10th in the 1500m (3.45,7) at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics.

Nielsen, Henry (1910–1958)

Great Danish runner that won his first national title in 1930 on 5000m. In July 1934 Henry ran in a 3000m meet in Stockholm, where he beat the current world record holder on 3000m Janucz Kusocinski. He set a new world record in 8.18,4. The same year he came home with a medal from the European Championships on the 10000m. He was the first Dane to bring home a medal from the European Championships. He ran in the 5000m at the 1936 Olympics.

Nielsen, Ingvard (1925–)

Never got to win any Danish championship, but when he won a local town race, that was enough to compete in the 1500m at the 1948 Olympics. He ran 4.01,7 and finished 7th in a preliminary heat.

Nielsen, Kjeld (1887–1910)

As 19-year old he won the Danish nationals in the mile, and the cross country nationals. He ran the 1500m (4.15), plus the 5 miles (27.04,8) at the 1908 Olympics.

Nurmi, Paavo

The greatest of the "Flying Finns". Tops all track stars of the modern age in terms of Olympic medals (12 - nine of which were gold) and world records (31). Born in Turku, Finnland in 1897 the "Phantom Finn" dominated middle/long distance running in the Twenties and was a living legend by the time he retired, at the age of 37. A taciturn, hard-working man, Nurmi had his brightest days at the Paris Olympics of 1924. There, despite the sultry climate, a far cry from the cool temperatures he was used to in Finland, Nurmi collected five gold medals. He had his greatest success on July 10 when, in the space of an hour, he won the 1500m in 3.53,6 and then the 5000m in 14.31,2. In the shorter race he killed the opposition with a hot early pace (800 meters in 1.58,5). With one lap (of a 500m track) to go, Nurmi had the race won - that is when he threw his famous watch onto the grass and went on to win with ease. In the 5000m Nurmi had two strong rivals in Ville Ritola, also of Finland, and Edvin Wide of Sweden, who tried to break him with a fast pace. Nurmi was content to follow them 40 meters behind, checking his pace with his watch until he caught them up as they faded. He finally won from Ritola. It was not particularly hard for Nurmi to take both of those gold medals in Paris. He didn't even have to run as fast as in Helsinki. But after that a shock came from the Finnish national Olympic team officials. They thought that Ville Ritola - another Flying Finn - should win something also and did not register Nurmi for 10.000 meters! Ritola won it in a World Record time, but rumor has it that Nurmi ran 30 seconds faster at the same evening on his own. Mind you, this ordeal was not new to him: three weeks earlier, on the cinders of the Zoological Gardens in Helsinki, he conducted a dress rehearsal under better climatic conditions and set two world records in the space of an hour: 3.52,6 for the 1500m and 14.28,2 for 5000m. There's a statue of him outside Helsinki Stadium and his likeness is on the Finnish 10-Mark currency note.

Nyambui, Suleiman

Distance star of the 1980s.

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O'Brien, Cathy

O'Brien was a member of the 1988 and 1982 U.S. Olympic Marathon teams and finished an amazing ninth in the first women's Trials in 1984 when she was just 16. Bothered by a nagging lower back problem, Cathy O'Brien announced that she won't be running in the 1996 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Columbia, South Carolina.

Olesen, Alf (1921–)

In 1945 this Danish runner peaked, when he won the cross country nationals, 5K nationals, plus the 3000m steeplechase. He also ran in the 3000m steeplechase at the 1948 Olympics, plus set several national records on this distance.

Olsen, Annelise Damm (1942–)

Winner of the Danish national champs on the 800m, which qualified for the 1968 Olympics, where she came in 5th in a preliminary heat. She set a national record (2.09,2). Her most memorable race, was when she captured silver at the European Champs in Athens, 1957. She also set nationals records on the 100m hurdles, 400m and 1500m. In the 1972 Olympics she reached the semis in the 800m.

Olsen, Georg (1937–)

Started out as he soccer player, but later started running. This Danish runner won the national title on the marathon in 1964 and 1967. Came in 34th at the 1968 Olympic marathon (2:42.24,6).

Olsen, Orla (1899–1949)

The Danish vegetarian that ran in the 1928 Olympic marathon, but did not finish the race.

Ondieki, Lisa

Native of Australia, winner of the silver medal in the Seoul Olympic Marathon and 1992 champion of the "New York City Marathon".

O'Neil, Jim

Started running in 1968 on the mile distance, after a life spent "in search of the perfect dry Martini" as he once said about himself. In 1981 this American runner increased the distances and won several 10 and 20 kilometers road races. In 1983 participated in the World Championships in Puerto Rico winning the M55 title on the 5000 meters in 17.01,31 and the M55 10,000 title in 35.18,80.

O'Reilly, John Francis "Jack" (1901–1965)

John Francis O'Reilly was born in 1901 in Galway (Ireland). He came from a large Catholic family in Fairhill. There were several sets of twins in his family, and he was one of them with a twin sister named Annie. His father, also named John, was well known in the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). John Francis (Jack) O'Reilly won the Irish Marathon Championship three years in a row in 1925, 1926, and 1927. He left Ireland in the early 1930's. He ran in the "Empire Games" in Canada in the early 1930's. He continued to run in local races throughout Ontario, Canada. He married Marion Keogh in 1940. They had several children and the family visited Ireland in 1956. Jack wanted to take his family back to see "God's Country". There was quite a write up in the "Galway Tribune" about a son of Eire - a Marathon Champion bringing his family back to "God's Country". His daughter Marianne remembers him with these words: "I remember as a young child holding a stop watch as he ran the track, totally unaware of the significance of the situation. He often talked to me and my sister about staying the course in life, being persistent, having faith and seeing success as an accomplishment well deserved. Always checking out the competition was a wise modus operandi, but just remember that the other guy was human too. When all is said and done we only really compete with ourselves, so we need to take care of ourselves and nurture who we really are. Jack O'Reilly has not only been our father but a great role model for life especially in terms of facing adversity and strife, and a model for staying the course. A true Irish athlete, he loved Ireland".

O'Sullivan, Marcus

The plucky Irishman who took up where Eamonn Coghlan left off with indoor miling, is taking aim at another Wanamaker Mile title - the most precious jewel of the Millrose Games. When O'Sullivan toed the line on February 2 1996 in New York's Madison Square Garden it was his 13th appearance in the 11-lap Wanamaker event. He's won five, one less than former Kansas great Glenn Cunningham and two less than fellow countryman Coghlan - the celebrated "Chairman of the Boards".

O'Sullivan, Sonia

Ex world indoor 5000 record holder (15:17.28 in 1991). Led into finishing straight in 1992 Olympic 3000 but just missed medal; at 1993 World Champs was beaten in 1500 and 3000 only by Chinese athletes. Her 8:28.74 3000 in 1993 was fastest in world since 1988 but subsequently bettered by Chinese. In 1994, after breaking world 2000 record, she set a European 3000 record of 8:21.64 (4:10.9/4:10.8 splits), fastest-ever non-Chinese mark. Ran world's fastest 3000 time of 1996 (8:35.42) and second fastest at 1500 (3:59.91). Lives in London where she often trains with leading Kenyan men. Accountancy degree from Villanova University, USA.

Ovett, Steve

The Olympic gold medalist for 800m in 1980, the English middle distance star - rival of Coe and Cram - once set 1500m and mile world records.

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Patton, George S.

U.S. Army General and 1912 Olympian.

Pedersen, Wigmar (1946–)

From 1967–1972 Pedersen was Denmark's best steeplechaser. In 1971 he set 2 national records on the 3000m steeplechase (8.39,8 and 8.36,8). He was coached by the legendary Arthur Lydiard, that made it possible for him to lower his national mark to 8.30,8 a record that hold for 13 years. In the 1972 Munich Olympics Pedersen ran poorly, and came through in 9.03,0.

Peltzer, Otto

Peltzer was a German doctor who never got any Olympic medals. Nevertheless he caused Paavo Nurmi one of his bittermost defeats. His greatest day took place on 11th September 1926 in Berlin in front of 25.000 German spectators. Nurmi and Edvin Wide were there attempting to break Nurmi's World mark of 3.52,6. Sensationally Wide left Nurmi behind breaking his record by 0,8 seconds. However, this was not enough because Peltzer, originally a sprinter, ran almost eight seconds faster than ever before: 3.51,0! This wasn't his first World Record, because he had already set one in 800 meters - his best distance - two months earlier. For Finns Peltzer was a shock; they had thought that Wide was the only foreigner capable of winning Nurmi. Nurmi started fast (400m 1.01 and 800m 2.04), but this did not affect Wide or especially Peltzer as much as he had thought.

Pereira, Mario Moniz

Coach of Carlos Lopes.

Petersen, Axel (1902–1983)

Called the "King of Cross Country". This Danish runner won the most prestigious Danish Cross Country race 5 times in a row 1925–1929. Won Nationals on 5K in 1925-1927 and on 10000 in 1927, 1927, 1929 and 1930. Ran in the 5000m at the 1928 Olympics.

Petersen, Viggo (1889–1965)

Finished 23rd in the 1912 Olympic 12K Cross Country race (53.00,8), and helped the Danish team finish 5th. Set a national record on the 3000m (9.02,2), 2 on the 5000m, where the best time was 15.43,2) and 3 on the 10000m (best time: 33.00,2).

Pfitzinger, Pete

Two-time United States Olympic marathoner, Pfitzinger placed 11th (2:13.53) at Los Angeles in 1984.

Pippig, Uta

Former East German runner now living and training in Boulder, Colorado. Pippig has twice won the "Boston Marathon" (1994 and 1995) and the "New York City Marathon" (1993). With a lifetime PR of 2:21.45, she's gunning for the first sub-2:20 marathon effort for women.

Pirie, Gordon

British distance star of the 1950s, Pirie won an Olympic silver in the Melbourne Olympics 5000m.

Planck, Ib (1930–)

Set a Danish National record on the 5000m at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, when he ran 14.31,6. A month after the Olympics he lowered his very own record to 14.30,0, and later to 14.25,0. He also set a national record on the 3000m, before he stopped running as a 22-year old.

Plumer, PattiSue

U.S. Olympian.

Plaatjes, Mark

Won the 1993 World Championship Marathon in Stuttgart.

Popejoy, Ken

Popejoy was a standout distance runner at Michigan State (USA), winning the NCAA Indoor mile in 1972 in 4.07,7 He led the Spartans to the 1970 and 1971 Big Ten Conference cross country team championships by winning the individual league race. He also set a Big Ten indoor record in the mile in 1972 as well as 1973. Popejoy was ranked ninth in the world and third in the U.S. in the 1500m in 1975 and advanced to the final round of the 1976 U.S. Olympic trials in 1976. He finished second to Steve Prefontaine in the mile in the 1969 Golden West High School Invitational meet, and served as the personal coach for two-time Olympian Jim Spivey.

Porter, Pat

From 1982 to 1989, Pat Porter won eight consecutive U.S. cross country championships. At the World Cross Country Championships he was fourth in 1984, sixth in 1986, and seventh in 1987. He was also a 10,000m Olympian in 1984 and 1988.

Poulsen, Aage (1919–)

Started out as a boxer, and ended up as an record holder on the 1500m in 3.51,0. This gave a ticket to the 1948 Olympics, where the heat stroke him on the 5000m and he could not finish the race. Won several national titles throughout time on the 1500m, 2000m and 5000m.

Prefontaine, Steve

Former University of Oregon great, "Pre" placed a gutsy fourth in the Olympic 5000m in Munich in 1972. He also won 25 straight races over a mile at Harvald Field (and never lost). In High School, he set a 2 mile High School record with 8.41,5. "Pre" was also the first person to win 4 NCAA championships in the same race. For five years no American beat him in a race over a mile. He ran under 4 minutes for the mile 9 times. Died in a car crash 1975. When he died, he held the American record for every distance from the 2000m to the 10000m.

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Rainey, Meredith

Born in Brooklyn, educated at Harvard, was the 1995 Usatf and Pan American Games champion at 800 meters and placed fifth in the World Championships in Sweden. She has a lifetime best of 1.57,63 at the distance.

Rasmussen, Dorthe (1960–)

The youngest Dane ever to win a national title, when she as a 14-year old won the 3000m. 10 years later she had her Olympic debut, when she came in 13th in the Olympic Marathon in Los Angeles. Later she won more than 30 national titles. She was also helped Denmark finish 2nd in the World Marathon Relays in 1992. In her career she lowered the national record on the marathon from 3:00.07 to 2:29.34.. She also ran the 10000m at the 1992 Olympic Games, where she had the 28th best time (33.22,43).

Rasmussen, Steen (1888–?)

Finished 28th and last of the 28 runners that finished the 1912 Olympic Cross Country race. He was on the Danish team that finished 5th. 46 runners started in this race.

Ritola, Ville

In the Olympics, Ritola was usually the only one who could threaten Paavo Nurmi's victories. In Paris Nurmi won Ritola in both 5000 meters and cross country. However, because Nurmi was not allowed to compete in 10.000 meters, Ritola gained more medals: 6-5. In Amsterdam 1928 they both hurt themselves. Nurmi won 10.000 meters and was second in steeplechase while Ritola could not finish. But finally in 5000 meters Ritola took over Nurmi and swept for the victory.

Robinson, Roger

New Zealand writer (author of "Heroes and Sparrows"), Robinson has won masters division titles at both the Boston and New York marathons.

Rodal, Vebjørn (1972–)

A Norwegian former middle distance athlete, his career high point coming when he won the gold medal in the 800m at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Rodal, born and raised in Berkåk, made his international senior debut in 1992, at the Barcelona Olympics, reaching the semifinals in his event, the 800m. Part of a group of successful Norwegian athletes, he won his first international medal only two years later, placing second at the 1994 European Championships. By finishing third in the final of the 1995 World Championships, he definitely established himself as one of the top 800m runners in the world, and was among the medal contenders for the 1996 Summer Olympics, held in Atlanta. Not present at the Olympics was world champion Wilson Kipketer, who had emigrated from Kenya to Denmark, but wasn't allowed to run for his new country by the Kenyans. This made the final wide open. Rodal made the final, which was run in a blistering pace. Rodal overtook most of the field in his second lap, and took the lead at the last bend, crossing the line first in a new Olympic record of 1:42.58. With four runners under 1:43, the final was one of the fastest 800m ever run. The Olympic title would remain Rodal's only international victory. He failed to make the final of the Sydney Olympics in 2000, finishing eighth in his semifinal. He more or less retired afterwards, although he has entered national competitions on occasion.

Rodgers, Bill

Rodgers won four Boston and four "New York City marathons" in his heyday - and a slew of shorter road races on the United States circuit. Now in his mid-40s, the "King of the Roads" is still racing well in the masters division.

Roelants, Gaston

Belgian distance star, Roelants won the gold medal in the 1964 Olympic steeplechase, and four international championships in cross country.

Rono, Henry

In 1978, Kenya's Rono set four world records: 3000m, 5000m, 10000m and the 3000m steeplechase.

Rose, Sofus (1894–1974)

Won 8 Danish national titles between 1915–1923. Finished 6th in the 1920 Olympic Marathon (2:41,18,0).

Ryun, Jim

A prodigious talent even as a teenager, Ryun set world records for the half-mile, 1500-meters and the mile. Finished second to Kenya's Kip Keino in the 1968 Olympic 1500 final in high-altitude Mexico City. Ryun was tripped in a trial heat at the Munich Games in 1972 and never got a chance to strike Olympic Gold. He was the first high school runner to break four minutes in the mile.

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Salazar, Alberto

Cuban-born University of Oregon graduate won three "New York City Marathon" titles and won the famous 1981 Boston "duel in the sun" with Dick Beardsley.

Samuelson, Joan Benoit

Winner of the historic first Olympic Marathon for women at Los Angeles in 1984 in 2:24.52. Maine-native Samuelson also won two "Boston Marathons", including what was then a world-best of 2:22.43 in 1983. She defeated Norway's Ingrid Kristiansen in their 1985 "Chicago Marathon" showdown with a 2:21.21.

Schul, Robert "Bob" (1937–)

Winner of the 5000 meters at the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, with the fastest time in the world that year (13:38), as well as 2 mile world record in 8:26.4, and running 3:58.9 in the mile. At present, Schul is still involved in track and field as a coach.

Scott, Steve

Holder of the U.S. indoor and outdoor records in the mile (3.47,69 in 1982), and one of two people to run more than 100 sub-4 miles (the other is John Walker of New Zealand). Had a comeback in 1995 after testicular cancer. He now also holds the U.S. record for the indoor masters mile (4.14,27).

Seko, Toshihiko

Two-time "Boston Marathon" winner and one of Japan's greatest marathon runners, Seko placed sixth in the Los Angeles Olympic Marathon in 1984.

Sevene, Bob

Coached Joan Benoit.

Shorter, Frank

His 1972 gold medal marathon win at Munich is often credited with launching the "running boom" in the United States. Shorter also landed a silver medal in the Montreal Olympic Games marathon in 1976.

Shrubb, Alf

Winner of 20 British distance titles between 1900 and 1904. Shrubb was one of the first to record his training methods in book form.

Siefert, Harry (1910–1965)

Danish runner, Siefert won his first national title in 1932 on 10000m. Totally he won 9 national titles. His most famous run is his 20K run on Osterbro Stadium September 14th, 1936. In this race he set a new national record on 15K, 10 miles, 1 hour and 20K. He also set 3 national records on the 5000m. He competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics on the 5000m, where he took 10th in 14.48,4.

Sierra, Pablo

1994 Twin Cities Marathon winner, who trained three times a day for eight weeks.

Simonsen, Erik (1915–)

Came in 42nd (2:46.41,4) in the 1952 Olympic marathon. Simonsen won several Danish national titles, even as a Masters runner. His greatest wins was when he won the national title on 20K in 1944, 1945 and 1946. In 1989 he won the 800m race for Masters aged 70-74.

Sinclair, Jon

United States road racer, major career wins at "Peachtree" and "Bloomsday".

Smith, Francis Larrieu

American distance runner, who competed in 5 Olympics and 2 World Championships in distances from the 800m to the marathon. She has held 17 American outdoor track records, which she said from age 16 to 38.

Snell, Peter

Peter Snell of New Zealand was called the "Iron Man" back in his day. He was a three time Olympic Champion at 800 meters and 1500 meters winning the 1960 and 1964 Olympics at 800 meters and winning the 1964 Olympics at 1500 meters. He held both world records at one point and was one of the most feared competitors as he was rarely ever beaten. He was a "Lydiard trained athlete" who would run against all the best in the world and beat them soundly with his awesome kick. Not so much did he have a great kick as he had tremendous endurance training under the tutelage of the "great coach" Arthur Lydiard. Lydiard literally changed the way distance runners trained and Snell was his prime candidate for bringing his periodization to the forefront of distance runners. Snell was ranked number 1 Miler for a few years before stepping down and later becoming an exercise physiologist and relocating to the State of Texas. His best mile was 3:54.6 which stood for awhile and when he would show up in his Kiwi black uniform, he was one of the most feared middle distance runnners of all time. He remains one of the best ranked milers of all time based on his performance times and his competitiveness on the slower racing tracks of his time. He may well have been well under 3:50 on today's "tuned" tracks. He ran a mid 2:20's marathon in a long practice run while he was zeroing in on his steady-state endurance building phase of his training. He simply stated that the marathon was too far for his body-type and he would run out of muscle glycogen too soon compared to the top marathoners. A very strong built power type of runner with solid speed, but tremendous muscular and cardio-vascular endurance.

Sorensen, Henrik (1897–1976)

Finished 27th in the 1920 Olympic 8K Cross Country race, and was on the Danish team that finished 7th. Won 5K nationals in 1921.

Sorensen, Olaf (1917–)

Came in 48th at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Marathon, when he ran a 2:55.21,0. He had his breakthrough when he was 34 years old. At nationals he won the marathon with more than 10 minutes. He also won the marathon title in 1952 and 1954.

Sorensen, Ruben (1954–)

A great Danish indoor track runner, whom set indoor national records on the 1500m (3.43,5) and the mile (4.01,9). He finished 8th in a preliminary heat on 1500m at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

Spivey, Jim

United States Olympian and 3.50,5 miler.

Squires, Bill

Distance running coach, Squires worked with Bill Rodgers and others on the Boston running scene.

Stampfl, Franz

Austrian-born professional coach, Stampfl worked with runners in England and Australia. He helped set up Bannister's sub-4 minute mile attempt in 1954 and later coached Australian Ralph Doubell's 1968 Olympic 800m at Mexico City.

Stern, Marty

Coached Villanova women to five straight Ncaa Cross Country titles from 1990 to 1994 and numerous "Penn Relays" victories.

Switzer, Kathrine

After her famous 1967 "K. Switzer" entry in the then men-only "Boston Marathon," Switzer - race commentator and promoter - pushed for a women's Olympic Marathon.

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Tergat, Paul

The Kenyan, that was unbeaten in 1996 in significant cross country races - retained his World Cross Country title and added the Iaaf World Cross Challenge award.

Theato, Michel

French runner that won the 40.26K long Olympic marathon in 1900.

Thogersen, Thyge (1926–)

Danish runner that finished 24th in the 1952 Olympic 10000m run, and 6th at the 1960 Olympic Marathon. Won nationals on 5000m 8 times, 10000m 12 times, 20K 6 times, marathon 3 times, and Cross Country 4 times. Lowered the national record on 5000m from 14.28,4 to 14.09,4, and the 10000m record from 30.20,6 to 29.45,0. He also ran in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where he finished 8th on the 5000m (14.21,0) and 15th on the 10000m (30.18,0).

Thomas, Albie

Aussie distance ace. Cerutty-coached runner of the late 1950s/early-1960s era, the diminitive but tough Thomas set world records over two miles (8.32) and he also broke the world 3 mile record (13.10,8) at Dublin's Santry track in 1958.

Thompson, Ian

Ran a 2:09.12 marathon at the 1974 Commonwealth Games.

Thugwane, Josia

South African hero that won the 1996 Olympic Marathon.

Topp, Gerhard (1893–1977)

Finished 26th in the 1912 Olympic 12K Cross Country race (54.24,9), and helped the Danish team finish 5th.

Trautmann, John

Former Georgetown star, United States road and track racer.

Treacy, John

One of Ireland's greatest runners, Treacy won the silver medal in the Los Angeles Olympic Marathon. He also won two world Cross Country Championships (1978, 1979).

Tysoe, Alfred

English runner that won the 800m (2.01,4) at the 1900 Olympics.

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Valentine, Howard

American runner that took 2nd in the 800m (1.56,3) at the 1904 Olympics.

Vasala, Pekka

Finnish middle-distance runner. Vasala won the Olympic 1500m at Munich in 1972 (3.36,3), outkicking defending champ Kip Keino.

Verner, Frank

American runner that took 2nd in the 1500m (4.06,8) at the 1904 Olympics.

Viren, Lasse

Finland's four-time Olympic gold medalist - the "double-double" of 5000m and 10000m (1972 and 1976). Viren's greatest win may have been the 1972 at Munich, when he fell at mid-race, but got up and charged back to victory - in addition to breaking Ron Clarke's 7-year-old world record by 1 second in 27.38,4. He later put his four Olympic gold medals up for sale.

Virgin, Craig

Former two-time World Cross Country Champ and American star at every distance from 2-miles to the marathon. The first American man to win the World Cross Country title.

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Waitz, Grete

One of the greatest distance runners of all time. Broke the world marathon record at the 1978 "New York City Marathon", when she recorded in 2:32:30. That was the first of her 9 "New York City Marathon" wins. Waitz won 5 World Cross Country titles. She also won the silver medal in the Los Angeles Olympic Marathon in 1984. Grete Waitz later started coaching another great runner, Scotland's Liz McColgan.

Wakiihuri, Douglas

Kenyan racer who trained in Japan under Nakamura, he won a silver medal in the Seoul Olympic Marathon.

Walker, John

First man to break 3.50 for the mile, the popular New Zealander also won the 1976 Olympic 1500m.

Wardlaw, Chris

Australian marathoner and two-time Olympian (1976 and 1980).

Welch, Priscilla

British marathoner Welch was a former smoker who didn't begin to train seriously until her mid-30s. At the age of 39 she placed 6th in the Los Angeles Olympic Marathon and three years later won the "New York City Marathon" in 2:30.17.

Wide, Edvin

The Finnish-born Swede Edvin Wide was unlucky because he had to compete at the same days as Paavo Nurmi and Ville Ritola. This is why he never achieved an Olympic gold medal. He was always there after these two Finns; silver or bronze depending on if both Ritola and Nurmi were competing or only one of them. Closest he could get to be an Olympic Champion was 5.000 meters in 1928. Nurmi and Ritola were hurt and Wide was left only 3 seconds behind gold medalist Ritola and he almost caught Nurmi in the finishing straight—still gaining only the bronze medal once again. 23rd August 1923, Wide had challenged Nurmi for the first time. These two men ran one mile in a one-on-one duel in Stockholm in front of 18.000 excited Swedish spectators. Nurmi ran a World Record (4.10,4) as he had promised beforehand. Wide was left 2,7 seconds behind. Three years later the Swede got his revenge in Grünenwald by winning Nurmi and setting a new World Record mark of 9.01,4 in two miles.

Williams, Todd

United States Olympian in the 10000m at Barcelona in 1992, Williams won the United States Cross Country title in 1991.

Wilson, Harry

Coached Steve Ovett.

Wilt, Fred

Buddy Edelen's coach.

Wohlhuter, Rick

United States middle-distance standout, bronze medalist at 1976 Olympic 800m.

Wolde, Mamo

Ethiopian runner that won the 1968 Olympic Marathon and took 2nd in the 1968 Olympic 10000m. At the 1972 Olympics he got a bronze medal, at age 41, in the 10000m. His marathon win was Ethiopia's third successive marathon victory, as Abebe Bikila had won the two previous Olympic marathon. Wolde dedicated his win to Bikila, as he also ran in the 1968 Marathon, but had to retire from the race due to a bone fracture in his leg.

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Yifter, Miruts

Known as "Yifter the Shifter" because of his killer kick, the Ethiopian won golds for both the 5000m and 10000m races at Moscow in 1980.

Young, George

United States distance runner. Young won a silver medal in the steeplechase at the 1968 Olympics.

Young-Jo, Hwang

The South Korean who won the 1992 Olympic Marathon.

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Zachariasen, Allan (1955–)

Danish runner who finished 25th in the 1984 Olympic marathon (2:17.10). A all-round runner who won 23 national titles on 11 seasons.

Zatopek, Emil

Czech Olympic great; winner of 4 gold medals, including 1952 "triple" at Helsinki wher he won the 5000m, 10000m and the marathon - all three in Olympic record time. Gave his Helsinki 10000m gold to world record setter Ron Clarke of Australia.

Credits

Run The Planet thanks Andy Milroy, Douglas Barry, Gerd Larsen, Ken Reed, James R. Santiago, Marianne Wilson O'Reilly, Peter Zhelev, Nebiat Tafari for their precious cooperation, and the website RunnersMecca (runnersmecca.com) for the permission to reprint the biographies of Browning Ross and Peter Snell.