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Countdown to Tokyo 2020(1)
With 365 days to go for the 29th Summer Olympics, I will try and pen down a story a day about an Olympic legend.
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With 365 days to go for the 29th Summer Olympics, I will try and pen down a story a day about an Olympic legend.
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#1
A Sporting Dropout
In 1932, 15 year old Yasuji Miyazaki won gold in 100m freestyle and 4*200m relay events.
Apparently though, he enjoyed studying a lot more than spending time in the pool and thus upon return from LA, he quit swimming to get admitted in Keio University.
A Sporting Dropout
In 1932, 15 year old Yasuji Miyazaki won gold in 100m freestyle and 4*200m relay events.
Apparently though, he enjoyed studying a lot more than spending time in the pool and thus upon return from LA, he quit swimming to get admitted in Keio University.
#2
#BoycottChina?
In early 2008, Abhinav Bindra bought 10000 Chinese pellets. He had noticed their grouping was better than the German ones
In the lead up to Beijing thus, he studied each of them and discarded all imperfect ones
They won him gold on 11.08.08
#BoycottChina?
In early 2008, Abhinav Bindra bought 10000 Chinese pellets. He had noticed their grouping was better than the German ones
In the lead up to Beijing thus, he studied each of them and discarded all imperfect ones
They won him gold on 11.08.08
#3
Oasis
Tommy Kono& #39;s family had to relocate to a Japanese internment camp in California desert during WWII. For 3 years, they survived on a meal a day
Kono braved the adversity though to begin lifting weights here - the result? 2 OLY Golds in 1952/56, also 4-time Mr. Universe
Oasis
Tommy Kono& #39;s family had to relocate to a Japanese internment camp in California desert during WWII. For 3 years, they survived on a meal a day
Kono braved the adversity though to begin lifting weights here - the result? 2 OLY Golds in 1952/56, also 4-time Mr. Universe
#4
Fortius
Introduced to Sailing by his father who was an Olympian himself, Santiago Lange is best known for braving lung cancer to win gold in Rio
His 2 sons are also Olympians
They have some catching up to do though, as the 60yr old will participate in his 7th Games next year
Fortius
Introduced to Sailing by his father who was an Olympian himself, Santiago Lange is best known for braving lung cancer to win gold in Rio
His 2 sons are also Olympians
They have some catching up to do though, as the 60yr old will participate in his 7th Games next year
#5
When 16yr old Ye Shiwen won gold in 400IM on this day at #London2012, she smashed the WR by 3 secs
The last 50m were covered in 28.93s, just 0.5s slower than the male winner of the same event. Media houses and general public quickly jumped accused her of doping
<1/2>
When 16yr old Ye Shiwen won gold in 400IM on this day at #London2012, she smashed the WR by 3 secs
The last 50m were covered in 28.93s, just 0.5s slower than the male winner of the same event. Media houses and general public quickly jumped accused her of doping
<1/2>
<2/2>
However, researchers soon concluded that Shiwen& #39;s win was unaided - there was absolutely no foul play involved.
At times I wish sport in general hadn’t turned so cynical, so that we could celebrate such performances without first doubting the genuity.
However, researchers soon concluded that Shiwen& #39;s win was unaided - there was absolutely no foul play involved.
At times I wish sport in general hadn’t turned so cynical, so that we could celebrate such performances without first doubting the genuity.
#6
Nawal El Moutawakel won the womens 400m hurdles at LA& #39;84
After her win, King Hassan II called to congratulate her & declared that all girls born on that day would be named after her
There are 147 Nawals who were listed to have taken birth in Morocco on August 8, 1984 thus
Nawal El Moutawakel won the womens 400m hurdles at LA& #39;84
After her win, King Hassan II called to congratulate her & declared that all girls born on that day would be named after her
There are 147 Nawals who were listed to have taken birth in Morocco on August 8, 1984 thus
#7
In 1949, Swedish designer Rickard Sarby entered a competition to design a boat. His entry which he called the FIN won and was later introduced in the Olympics as the FINN class.
Amazingly, Sarby competed in the 1st games which featured this (in Helsinki, 1952) and bronze.
In 1949, Swedish designer Rickard Sarby entered a competition to design a boat. His entry which he called the FIN won and was later introduced in the Olympics as the FINN class.
Amazingly, Sarby competed in the 1st games which featured this (in Helsinki, 1952) and bronze.
#8
Longevity
Joan Benoit was the first ever winner of the women& #39;s Marathon at the OLY.
In 2019, on the eve of the 40th anniversary of her 1st Boston Marathon win, she ran the race again and finished in 3:04:00, which was within 40mins of her time from 40yrs ago.
Longevity
Joan Benoit was the first ever winner of the women& #39;s Marathon at the OLY.
In 2019, on the eve of the 40th anniversary of her 1st Boston Marathon win, she ran the race again and finished in 3:04:00, which was within 40mins of her time from 40yrs ago.
#9
Borrowed Spikes to list 10.0s in 100m
Bob Hayes ahead of the 100m final in 1964 Tokyo Games left his left shoe in his dorm room and had to borrow a left shoe from US 800m runner Tom Farrell, who was the only other person on the team who wore Hayes’s tiny size of 8
Borrowed Spikes to list 10.0s in 100m
Bob Hayes ahead of the 100m final in 1964 Tokyo Games left his left shoe in his dorm room and had to borrow a left shoe from US 800m runner Tom Farrell, who was the only other person on the team who wore Hayes’s tiny size of 8
#10
Medals of Friendship
In 1936,
https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇯🇵" title="Flagge von Japan" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Japan"> pole vaulters Shuhei Nishida & Sueo Oe tied for 2nd. While rules ensured 1 of them was awarded the silver, upon their return home, the pair had a jeweler cut and fuse their medals back together, creating half-silver, half-bronze pendants
Medals of Friendship
In 1936,
pole vaulters Shuhei Nishida & Sueo Oe tied for 2nd. While rules ensured 1 of them was awarded the silver, upon their return home, the pair had a jeweler cut and fuse their medals back together, creating half-silver, half-bronze pendants" title=" #10 Medals of FriendshipIn 1936, https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇯🇵" title="Flagge von Japan" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Japan"> pole vaulters Shuhei Nishida & Sueo Oe tied for 2nd. While rules ensured 1 of them was awarded the silver, upon their return home, the pair had a jeweler cut and fuse their medals back together, creating half-silver, half-bronze pendants" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#11
Never too late to get rid of regressiveness
Jan Blankers, as a journalist in the 1930s pretty regressively campaigned against women’s participation in the Olympic movement
During the war though, he met Fanny Blankers, married her and later coached her to 4 golds in 1948OLY
Never too late to get rid of regressiveness
Jan Blankers, as a journalist in the 1930s pretty regressively campaigned against women’s participation in the Olympic movement
During the war though, he met Fanny Blankers, married her and later coached her to 4 golds in 1948OLY
#12
The first captain to lead India to an Olympic Gold, Jaipal Singh Munda was an Oxford graduate and an Indian Civil Service officer before he ventured in to politics full time
A champion of tribal rights, his note in the meeting while drafting the Constitution is iconic <1/2>
The first captain to lead India to an Olympic Gold, Jaipal Singh Munda was an Oxford graduate and an Indian Civil Service officer before he ventured in to politics full time
A champion of tribal rights, his note in the meeting while drafting the Constitution is iconic <1/2>
<2/2>
"The history of my people is one of continuous exploitation and dispossession and yet I take Pandit Nehru at his word. I take you all at your word that now we are going to start a new chapter of independence where there is equality and where no one would be neglected"
"The history of my people is one of continuous exploitation and dispossession and yet I take Pandit Nehru at his word. I take you all at your word that now we are going to start a new chapter of independence where there is equality and where no one would be neglected"
#13
A lasting legacy
Harold Whitlock won gold in the 50km walk at the 1936 Berlin Games. Apart from their medals, oak saplings were given to the winners
Rather than planting it in his garden, Whitlock gifted it to his alma matter, Hendon School, where it remained until 2007
A lasting legacy
Harold Whitlock won gold in the 50km walk at the 1936 Berlin Games. Apart from their medals, oak saplings were given to the winners
Rather than planting it in his garden, Whitlock gifted it to his alma matter, Hendon School, where it remained until 2007
#14
Sport can be cruel too
Bronze medalist in the Marathon from 1964, Kokichi Tsuburaya, got injured in the lead up to the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City - inconsolable, he cut his right cartoid artery and killed himself. He left a note.
It read - "Cannot run anymore"
Sport can be cruel too
Bronze medalist in the Marathon from 1964, Kokichi Tsuburaya, got injured in the lead up to the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City - inconsolable, he cut his right cartoid artery and killed himself. He left a note.
It read - "Cannot run anymore"
#15
The Olympian who didnt want to be popular
In Chariots of Fire, Kiwi ‘Tom Watson’ comes third in the 100m dash. Watson was based on Arthur Porritt, who didnt want to be named, fearing publicity.
A Rhodes scholar, he later served as Governor-General of NZ from 1967-72
The Olympian who didnt want to be popular
In Chariots of Fire, Kiwi ‘Tom Watson’ comes third in the 100m dash. Watson was based on Arthur Porritt, who didnt want to be named, fearing publicity.
A Rhodes scholar, he later served as Governor-General of NZ from 1967-72
#16
The winners of the angling event were perhaps best rewarded at the 1900 Paris Games - Elie Lesueur, the gold medalist took home 200 Francs and the biggest fish (which he caught)!
Had it been an official event, would have been the first instance of prize money in Olympics
The winners of the angling event were perhaps best rewarded at the 1900 Paris Games - Elie Lesueur, the gold medalist took home 200 Francs and the biggest fish (which he caught)!
Had it been an official event, would have been the first instance of prize money in Olympics
#17
Redemption
Bob Beamon, less than 7yrs before his record setting jump at the 1968 Games was a member of a street gang in Queens and witnessed a friend being stabbed to death
He took up athletics at reform school and won the long jump gold at Junior Olympics in 1962 <1/2>
Redemption
Bob Beamon, less than 7yrs before his record setting jump at the 1968 Games was a member of a street gang in Queens and witnessed a friend being stabbed to death
He took up athletics at reform school and won the long jump gold at Junior Olympics in 1962 <1/2>
#17
<2/2>
He had written in his autobiography, “That gold medal was as important to me as the one in Mexico City.”
“It proved to me that I might come through with something worthwhile in my life.”
<2/2>
He had written in his autobiography, “That gold medal was as important to me as the one in Mexico City.”
“It proved to me that I might come through with something worthwhile in my life.”
#18
Md Ali almost withdrew from the 1960 Olympics. He was told he couldnt take the boat or the train to Rome and he was just not fond of flying. Eventually policeman Joe Martin over a chat in Louisville’s Central Park convinced him to travel
The rest, as they say is history
Md Ali almost withdrew from the 1960 Olympics. He was told he couldnt take the boat or the train to Rome and he was just not fond of flying. Eventually policeman Joe Martin over a chat in Louisville’s Central Park convinced him to travel
The rest, as they say is history
#19
This is one of the most iconic images in the history of the Olympic Games. What we often ignore is, USA would have won gold even if Kerri Strug didn& #39;t perform the second vault
But she did, because she didn& #39;t want to leave it to chance
Makes the effort all the more valiant
This is one of the most iconic images in the history of the Olympic Games. What we often ignore is, USA would have won gold even if Kerri Strug didn& #39;t perform the second vault
But she did, because she didn& #39;t want to leave it to chance
Makes the effort all the more valiant
#20
Indonesia had to wait for 40years for their 1st OLY gold. When it came, it came in a & #39;pair& #39; -the then engaged couple of Susi Susanti and Alan Budikusuma reigned in Badminton singles
When they reached Jakarta, a crowd of over a million people greeted through a street parade
Indonesia had to wait for 40years for their 1st OLY gold. When it came, it came in a & #39;pair& #39; -the then engaged couple of Susi Susanti and Alan Budikusuma reigned in Badminton singles
When they reached Jakarta, a crowd of over a million people greeted through a street parade
#21
Hugo Wieslander finished 2nd in Decathlon at 1912 Games, behind Jim Thorpe
A year later, Thorpe was disqualified for not being an amateur, the Swede was declared the winner of the event & awarded the gold medal
He refused to accept it though and handed it over to a museum
Hugo Wieslander finished 2nd in Decathlon at 1912 Games, behind Jim Thorpe
A year later, Thorpe was disqualified for not being an amateur, the Swede was declared the winner of the event & awarded the gold medal
He refused to accept it though and handed it over to a museum
#22
Survive a pandemic and emerge Olympic Champion
14 year old Aileen Riggin was diagnosed with the Spanish Flu in 1919. She managed to recover though, and in 1920, first ever female Olympic diving champion.
Later, she became a Hollywood actress and a celebrated journalist.
Survive a pandemic and emerge Olympic Champion
14 year old Aileen Riggin was diagnosed with the Spanish Flu in 1919. She managed to recover though, and in 1920, first ever female Olympic diving champion.
Later, she became a Hollywood actress and a celebrated journalist.
#23
Balbir Singh Sr, a hero of many of our Olympic triumphs handed over his 3 Olympic gold medals to the then Punjab CM for the China War relief fund in October, 1962.
One of our most decorated sportspersons ever, he passed away earlier this year. May his soul rest in peace.
Balbir Singh Sr, a hero of many of our Olympic triumphs handed over his 3 Olympic gold medals to the then Punjab CM for the China War relief fund in October, 1962.
One of our most decorated sportspersons ever, he passed away earlier this year. May his soul rest in peace.
#24
Defiance
At the opening ceremony of the 1936 Berlin Games, India, led by Major Dhyanchand was one of only 2 countries to not salute Hitler.
Later, in the final against the hosts, played coincidentally on August 15, he scored 6 goals to lead us to a famous 8-1 triumph.
Defiance
At the opening ceremony of the 1936 Berlin Games, India, led by Major Dhyanchand was one of only 2 countries to not salute Hitler.
Later, in the final against the hosts, played coincidentally on August 15, he scored 6 goals to lead us to a famous 8-1 triumph.
#25
The first man to defend the Olympic marathon title - Abebe Bikila met with an accident in 1969 which left him paralysed and ensuring he could never walk again.
It didnt dampen his spirits though, as he competed in archery and TT at the 1970 precursor of the Paralympics.
The first man to defend the Olympic marathon title - Abebe Bikila met with an accident in 1969 which left him paralysed and ensuring he could never walk again.
It didnt dampen his spirits though, as he competed in archery and TT at the 1970 precursor of the Paralympics.
#26
Majed Abu Maraheel from Gaza, while he was posted in Israel, would run to work from his home every day.
In 1991, on what was a regular day of commute for him, he was caught in a crossfire and was shot.
He recovered to became Palestine& #39;s 1st flag bearer@Olympics in 1996.
Majed Abu Maraheel from Gaza, while he was posted in Israel, would run to work from his home every day.
In 1991, on what was a regular day of commute for him, he was caught in a crossfire and was shot.
He recovered to became Palestine& #39;s 1st flag bearer@Olympics in 1996.
#27*
This isnt about an athlete, but speaks volumes about the Olympic Spirit.
In 1988, to disrupt the preparations of the Seoul Games, Kim Hyon-hui (a North Korean spy) bombed a Korean Air Lines Flight. Instead of sending her to jail, she was taken to the Olympic Village <1/2>
This isnt about an athlete, but speaks volumes about the Olympic Spirit.
In 1988, to disrupt the preparations of the Seoul Games, Kim Hyon-hui (a North Korean spy) bombed a Korean Air Lines Flight. Instead of sending her to jail, she was taken to the Olympic Village <1/2>
<2/2>
She realised the propaganda that her country had been shoving in their heads and decided to confess to her crime(s). Months later, she watched the games on TV.
Never too late to be caught by the Olympic bug, or peace for that matter
(pic taken before 2018 Winter Games)
She realised the propaganda that her country had been shoving in their heads and decided to confess to her crime(s). Months later, she watched the games on TV.
Never too late to be caught by the Olympic bug, or peace for that matter
(pic taken before 2018 Winter Games)
#28
In 1938, Karoly Takacs had his right hand (one with he shot) blown off completely.
It didn’t deter him from shooting though as he taught himself to shoot with his left hand and in 1948, at 38, he won the rapid fire pistol (smashing the WR in process) at the London Games.
In 1938, Karoly Takacs had his right hand (one with he shot) blown off completely.
It didn’t deter him from shooting though as he taught himself to shoot with his left hand and in 1948, at 38, he won the rapid fire pistol (smashing the WR in process) at the London Games.
#29
An Olympic Goal at the Olympics
At London 2012, @USWNT star Megan Rapinoe became the first player to score a goal directly from a corner kick(known as Olympic goal) at the Olympics. She netted for the US Women& #39;s National Team against Canada in the SF which her team won 4-3
An Olympic Goal at the Olympics
At London 2012, @USWNT star Megan Rapinoe became the first player to score a goal directly from a corner kick(known as Olympic goal) at the Olympics. She netted for the US Women& #39;s National Team against Canada in the SF which her team won 4-3
#30
Double Olympic champion in Archery,https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇰🇷" title="Flagge von Südkorea" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Südkorea">& #39;s Im Dong-hyun is legally blind!
In an event, which requires one to aim at targets from 70meters, his dominance is unimaginable
In fact, in London 2012, he broke the WR too (699/720) - would make for a fascinating Ripleys episode tbh
Double Olympic champion in Archery,
In an event, which requires one to aim at targets from 70meters, his dominance is unimaginable
In fact, in London 2012, he broke the WR too (699/720) - would make for a fascinating Ripleys episode tbh
& #39;s Im Dong-hyun is legally blind!In an event, which requires one to aim at targets from 70meters, his dominance is unimaginableIn fact, in London 2012, he broke the WR too (699/720) - would make for a fascinating Ripleys episode tbh" title=" #30Double Olympic champion in Archery, https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇰🇷" title="Flagge von Südkorea" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Südkorea">& #39;s Im Dong-hyun is legally blind!In an event, which requires one to aim at targets from 70meters, his dominance is unimaginableIn fact, in London 2012, he broke the WR too (699/720) - would make for a fascinating Ripleys episode tbh" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#31
Chi Cheng is perhaps the most famous Asian track and field star you have never heard of
A bronze medalist at the 1968 OLY, she broke 3 world records in 1969 & 5 more in 1970. All this, before a career ending injury at the 1970 Asiad- one can only wonder what could have been
Chi Cheng is perhaps the most famous Asian track and field star you have never heard of
A bronze medalist at the 1968 OLY, she broke 3 world records in 1969 & 5 more in 1970. All this, before a career ending injury at the 1970 Asiad- one can only wonder what could have been
#32
Richard Williams was onboard Titanic when it sank on 15 April 1912. After jumping from a height of 12m, he swam to a rescue boat, it is believed doctors wanted to amputate his legs but he refused.
12 years later, he won mixed doubles gold in Tennis the 1924 Olympics.
Richard Williams was onboard Titanic when it sank on 15 April 1912. After jumping from a height of 12m, he swam to a rescue boat, it is believed doctors wanted to amputate his legs but he refused.
12 years later, he won mixed doubles gold in Tennis the 1924 Olympics.
#33
Walkover to win Olympic Gold and a martyr
400m final at 1908OLY saw 3/4 participants withdraw, thus allowing Wyndham Halswelle win without any competition
7yrs later, he died a hero though as while trying to save a fellow soldier, he was shot and killed during World War I
Walkover to win Olympic Gold and a martyr
400m final at 1908OLY saw 3/4 participants withdraw, thus allowing Wyndham Halswelle win without any competition
7yrs later, he died a hero though as while trying to save a fellow soldier, he was shot and killed during World War I
#34
Leading up to London 2012, @DuttYogi overcame a career threatening knee injury. At the Olympics itself, in the loss to 4 time world champion Besik Kudukhov he badly injured his eye
Incredibly though, in the next 45 mins, he beat 3 grapplers, including thishttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇰🇵" title="Flagge von Nordkorea" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Nordkorea"> to win bronze
Leading up to London 2012, @DuttYogi overcame a career threatening knee injury. At the Olympics itself, in the loss to 4 time world champion Besik Kudukhov he badly injured his eye
Incredibly though, in the next 45 mins, he beat 3 grapplers, including this
#35
Shoemaker and Matchmaker
Nicknamed "Shoemaker" because he used to work for Bata, 5-time Olympic Medalist spoke to the then Czechoslovak president Antonin Zapotocky and helped Olga Fikotova getting a permit to marry Harold Connolly (both of them were Olympic champions too)
Shoemaker and Matchmaker
Nicknamed "Shoemaker" because he used to work for Bata, 5-time Olympic Medalist spoke to the then Czechoslovak president Antonin Zapotocky and helped Olga Fikotova getting a permit to marry Harold Connolly (both of them were Olympic champions too)
#36
Heroes of the Austerity Games
For #London1948, contributions poured in from other countries to host the event
- 100 tons of fruits/vegetables from Low Countries
- Timber fromhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇫🇮" title="Flagge von Finnland" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Finnland"> for basketball court
- Gymnastics equipment fromhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇨🇭" title="Flagge der Schweiz" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge der Schweiz">
- Douglas firs fromhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇨🇦" title="Flagge von Kanada" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Kanada"> for diving boards
Heroes of the Austerity Games
For #London1948, contributions poured in from other countries to host the event
- 100 tons of fruits/vegetables from Low Countries
- Timber from
- Gymnastics equipment from
- Douglas firs from
#37
Charles Barkley was omitted from the 1984 US Olympic Squad because the coach deemed him & #39;not good enough& #39;. 8 and 12 years later, he led the national team in scoring enroute winning 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille">
Oh, he didnt just light up the competition with his dunks - he did it with banter too
Charles Barkley was omitted from the 1984 US Olympic Squad because the coach deemed him & #39;not good enough& #39;. 8 and 12 years later, he led the national team in scoring enroute winning 2
Oh, he didnt just light up the competition with his dunks - he did it with banter too
Oh, he didnt just light up the competition with his dunks - he did it with banter too" title=" #37Charles Barkley was omitted from the 1984 US Olympic Squad because the coach deemed him & #39;not good enough& #39;. 8 and 12 years later, he led the national team in scoring enroute winning 2 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> Oh, he didnt just light up the competition with his dunks - he did it with banter too" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#38
An equestrian medalist who couldn’t feel her legs
In 1944, Lis Hartel contracted Polio;despite that, at 1952 Helsinki games, she won silver in what was a largely male dominated sport till then
Images of her being helped off her horse show how difficult it must have been
An equestrian medalist who couldn’t feel her legs
In 1944, Lis Hartel contracted Polio;despite that, at 1952 Helsinki games, she won silver in what was a largely male dominated sport till then
Images of her being helped off her horse show how difficult it must have been
#39
3 time OLY gold medalist Teofilo Stevenson refused to turn pro. He turned down millions ofhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="💲" title="Fettes Dollarzeichen" aria-label="Emoji: Fettes Dollarzeichen"> from US promoters, who wanted him to fight Ali
"I will not trade the Cuban people for all the money in the world"
Can only imagine what a spectacle this faceoff would have been
3 time OLY gold medalist Teofilo Stevenson refused to turn pro. He turned down millions of
"I will not trade the Cuban people for all the money in the world"
Can only imagine what a spectacle this faceoff would have been
from US promoters, who wanted him to fight Ali"I will not trade the Cuban people for all the money in the world"Can only imagine what a spectacle this faceoff would have been" title=" #393 time OLY gold medalist Teofilo Stevenson refused to turn pro. He turned down millions of https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="💲" title="Fettes Dollarzeichen" aria-label="Emoji: Fettes Dollarzeichen"> from US promoters, who wanted him to fight Ali"I will not trade the Cuban people for all the money in the world"Can only imagine what a spectacle this faceoff would have been" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#40
Ironwoman
In 2012, her 3rd Olympics, Katinka Hosszu failed to win a medal, leading to the President of thehttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇭🇺" title="Flagge von Ungarn" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Ungarn"> Swimming Association asking her retire.
She didnt - and in the next year, won 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> and 1 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥉" title="Bronzemedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Bronzemedaille"> at the World Championships; 3 years later in Rio, she won 3https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> and 1 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥈" title="Silbermedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Silbermedaille">
Ironwoman
In 2012, her 3rd Olympics, Katinka Hosszu failed to win a medal, leading to the President of the
She didnt - and in the next year, won 2
Swimming Association asking her retire. She didnt - and in the next year, won 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> and 1 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥉" title="Bronzemedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Bronzemedaille"> at the World Championships; 3 years later in Rio, she won 3https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> and 1 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥈" title="Silbermedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Silbermedaille">" title=" #40 IronwomanIn 2012, her 3rd Olympics, Katinka Hosszu failed to win a medal, leading to the President of the https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇭🇺" title="Flagge von Ungarn" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Ungarn"> Swimming Association asking her retire. She didnt - and in the next year, won 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> and 1 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥉" title="Bronzemedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Bronzemedaille"> at the World Championships; 3 years later in Rio, she won 3https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> and 1 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥈" title="Silbermedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Silbermedaille">" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#41
First Indian Woman at the Olympics
Nora Polley, born in Bengal on July 29, 1894 represented India in Tennis at 1924 Paris Games. In singles, she lost to Lili Alvarez in Pre-QF and in mixed doubles, she & Sydney Jacob lost in Rnd2.
Myth- Mehri Tata played in the same games
First Indian Woman at the Olympics
Nora Polley, born in Bengal on July 29, 1894 represented India in Tennis at 1924 Paris Games. In singles, she lost to Lili Alvarez in Pre-QF and in mixed doubles, she & Sydney Jacob lost in Rnd2.
Myth- Mehri Tata played in the same games
#42
Sister-trouble
North Korean gymnast Hong un Jong won gold in the vault in 2008 OLY. Unfortunately, her federation was banned in 2010 for 2yrs, making her miss the opportunity to defend her title
The reason for the ban - her sister had provided false age-proof documentshttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🤦♂️" title="Mann schlägt sich die Hand vors Gesicht" aria-label="Emoji: Mann schlägt sich die Hand vors Gesicht">
Sister-trouble
North Korean gymnast Hong un Jong won gold in the vault in 2008 OLY. Unfortunately, her federation was banned in 2010 for 2yrs, making her miss the opportunity to defend her title
The reason for the ban - her sister had provided false age-proof documents
" title=" #42Sister-troubleNorth Korean gymnast Hong un Jong won gold in the vault in 2008 OLY. Unfortunately, her federation was banned in 2010 for 2yrs, making her miss the opportunity to defend her titleThe reason for the ban - her sister had provided false age-proof documentshttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🤦♂️" title="Mann schlägt sich die Hand vors Gesicht" aria-label="Emoji: Mann schlägt sich die Hand vors Gesicht">" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#43
& #39;Halla& #39; with 3https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> is the most successful horse in Olympic history.
In 1956, with her rider, Hans Gunter Winkler injured heavily, Halla had to complete her final jump to keep GER in competition - she did just that and not just ensured a medal but a gold.
& #39;Halla& #39; with 3
In 1956, with her rider, Hans Gunter Winkler injured heavily, Halla had to complete her final jump to keep GER in competition - she did just that and not just ensured a medal but a gold.
is the most successful horse in Olympic history. In 1956, with her rider, Hans Gunter Winkler injured heavily, Halla had to complete her final jump to keep GER in competition - she did just that and not just ensured a medal but a gold." title=" #43& #39;Halla& #39; with 3 https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille"> is the most successful horse in Olympic history. In 1956, with her rider, Hans Gunter Winkler injured heavily, Halla had to complete her final jump to keep GER in competition - she did just that and not just ensured a medal but a gold." class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#44
@Joydeep709 finished agonisingly short off a medal in the 50m rifle prone event at #London2012
His legacy hasnt diminished since, as his protege Mehuli Ghosh medaled at Youth Olympics. If she ends up winning at Tokyo too,we would have a real life Kabir Khan in Karmakar
@Joydeep709 finished agonisingly short off a medal in the 50m rifle prone event at #London2012
His legacy hasnt diminished since, as his protege Mehuli Ghosh medaled at Youth Olympics. If she ends up winning at Tokyo too,we would have a real life Kabir Khan in Karmakar
#45
Olympic Baby
Shane Gould born on 1st day of Melbourne Olympics in 1956 took the Munich Games in 1972 by storm. She was the 1st swimmer to win medals in 5 individual events in a single games.
She quit immediately after the games though.
What was left to achieve anyway?!
Olympic Baby
Shane Gould born on 1st day of Melbourne Olympics in 1956 took the Munich Games in 1972 by storm. She was the 1st swimmer to win medals in 5 individual events in a single games.
She quit immediately after the games though.
What was left to achieve anyway?!
#46
Swipe right for Olympic Champion
Post Joseph Schooling& #39;s 100m butterfly gold in 2016, a certain Sabryna Salazar tweeted a screenshot from her Tinder chat with the Olympic Champion.
She regretted not replying to "Whatcha up to"
I am assuming he lost her at & #39;Whatcha& #39;https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="😂" title="Gesicht mit Freudentränen" aria-label="Emoji: Gesicht mit Freudentränen">
Swipe right for Olympic Champion
Post Joseph Schooling& #39;s 100m butterfly gold in 2016, a certain Sabryna Salazar tweeted a screenshot from her Tinder chat with the Olympic Champion.
She regretted not replying to "Whatcha up to"
I am assuming he lost her at & #39;Whatcha& #39;
" title=" #46Swipe right for Olympic ChampionPost Joseph Schooling& #39;s 100m butterfly gold in 2016, a certain Sabryna Salazar tweeted a screenshot from her Tinder chat with the Olympic Champion.She regretted not replying to "Whatcha up to"I am assuming he lost her at & #39;Whatcha& #39;https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="😂" title="Gesicht mit Freudentränen" aria-label="Emoji: Gesicht mit Freudentränen">" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#47
The accidental Flagbearer
At the Sydney Games, Marcelo Rios refused to march in the opening ceremony because his mother and sister werent given tickets. Nicolas Massu stepped in, and led the Chilean contingent.
Massu& #39;s bigger OLY moment came 4yrs later though as he won 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille">
The accidental Flagbearer
At the Sydney Games, Marcelo Rios refused to march in the opening ceremony because his mother and sister werent given tickets. Nicolas Massu stepped in, and led the Chilean contingent.
Massu& #39;s bigger OLY moment came 4yrs later though as he won 2
" title=" #47The accidental FlagbearerAt the Sydney Games, Marcelo Rios refused to march in the opening ceremony because his mother and sister werent given tickets. Nicolas Massu stepped in, and led the Chilean contingent.Massu& #39;s bigger OLY moment came 4yrs later though as he won 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille">" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#48
In 1992, Tennis, like Boxing now, used to award bronze medals to both losing semi finalists
Ramesh Krishnan and Leander Paes thus came agonisingly close to winning a medal as they lost their QF to the 2 Gorans- Ivanesevic & Prpic. They had earlier beatenhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇦🇺" title="Flagge von Australien" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Australien">top seeds
In 1992, Tennis, like Boxing now, used to award bronze medals to both losing semi finalists
Ramesh Krishnan and Leander Paes thus came agonisingly close to winning a medal as they lost their QF to the 2 Gorans- Ivanesevic & Prpic. They had earlier beaten
top seeds" title=" #48In 1992, Tennis, like Boxing now, used to award bronze medals to both losing semi finalistsRamesh Krishnan and Leander Paes thus came agonisingly close to winning a medal as they lost their QF to the 2 Gorans- Ivanesevic & Prpic. They had earlier beaten https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇦🇺" title="Flagge von Australien" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Australien">top seeds" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#49
America& #39;s Dan Gable holds an exclusive bit of distinction in Olympic wrestling. When he won the 68kg division gold medal at the Munich Games in 1972, not a single point was scored against him in the competition
That was unprecedented and no ones come close ever since either
America& #39;s Dan Gable holds an exclusive bit of distinction in Olympic wrestling. When he won the 68kg division gold medal at the Munich Games in 1972, not a single point was scored against him in the competition
That was unprecedented and no ones come close ever since either
#50
In 1988Olympics, sailor Lawrence Lemieux was inhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥈" title="Silbermedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Silbermedaille"> position when he dropped to save 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇸🇬" title="Flagge von Singapur" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Singapur"> sailors competing in a different event nearby
By when he returned, he had lagged considerably and could only finish 23rd
The IOC did however award him the Pierre de Coubertin medal
In 1988Olympics, sailor Lawrence Lemieux was in
By when he returned, he had lagged considerably and could only finish 23rd
The IOC did however award him the Pierre de Coubertin medal
position when he dropped to save 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇸🇬" title="Flagge von Singapur" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Singapur"> sailors competing in a different event nearbyBy when he returned, he had lagged considerably and could only finish 23rdThe IOC did however award him the Pierre de Coubertin medal" title=" #50In 1988Olympics, sailor Lawrence Lemieux was in https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥈" title="Silbermedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Silbermedaille"> position when he dropped to save 2https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🇸🇬" title="Flagge von Singapur" aria-label="Emoji: Flagge von Singapur"> sailors competing in a different event nearbyBy when he returned, he had lagged considerably and could only finish 23rdThe IOC did however award him the Pierre de Coubertin medal" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#51
OTD in 1913, Jesse Owens was born
Not many people know that he opposed the Black Power Salute in 1968
"The black fist is a meaningless symbol. When you open it, you have nothing but weak, empty fingers"
4 years later, he reversed his stance in his book "I Have Changed"
OTD in 1913, Jesse Owens was born
Not many people know that he opposed the Black Power Salute in 1968
"The black fist is a meaningless symbol. When you open it, you have nothing but weak, empty fingers"
4 years later, he reversed his stance in his book "I Have Changed"
#52
Balkrishan Singh holds the unique distinction of winning the Olympic gold medal both as a player and as a coach. He was a member of the team in 1956 Melbourne Games and later coached the team that won the gold in 1980
He was also the 1st coach to introduce "Total Hockey"
Balkrishan Singh holds the unique distinction of winning the Olympic gold medal both as a player and as a coach. He was a member of the team in 1956 Melbourne Games and later coached the team that won the gold in 1980
He was also the 1st coach to introduce "Total Hockey"
#53
One of India’s greatest Olympians Leslie Claudius picked up Hockey by chance
He had signed for BNR to play football (played IFA shield too). It was at BNR’s tent that he picked the sport
Soon he played the Beighton Cup and within a year, was drafted in to the 1948OLY squad
One of India’s greatest Olympians Leslie Claudius picked up Hockey by chance
He had signed for BNR to play football (played IFA shield too). It was at BNR’s tent that he picked the sport
Soon he played the Beighton Cup and within a year, was drafted in to the 1948OLY squad
#54
Cathy Freeman lit the OLYCauldron OTD, in 2000. Not many know this but her 4*400m relay teammate - @NovaPeris was the 1st aboriginal athlete to win an OLY gold. She was part of AUS& #39;s Hockey team in 1996
In 1998CWG in fact, she won gold in both Hockey & Athletics(4*400m)
Cathy Freeman lit the OLYCauldron OTD, in 2000. Not many know this but her 4*400m relay teammate - @NovaPeris was the 1st aboriginal athlete to win an OLY gold. She was part of AUS& #39;s Hockey team in 1996
In 1998CWG in fact, she won gold in both Hockey & Athletics(4*400m)
#55
OTD in 2000, Anjali Vedpathak became the 1st shooter to make the OLY finals (finished 7th)
A wildcard entry, she didnt have her own equipment when she reached Sydney - her coach arranged for it in the Games village
Trivia- her 1st rifle was gifted by actor Nana Patekar
OTD in 2000, Anjali Vedpathak became the 1st shooter to make the OLY finals (finished 7th)
A wildcard entry, she didnt have her own equipment when she reached Sydney - her coach arranged for it in the Games village
Trivia- her 1st rifle was gifted by actor Nana Patekar
#56
18.09.2000
In the heats of the mens 200m butterfly, this 15 year old made his Olympic debut and listed a personal best time.
Tom Malchow shattered the Olympic record to claim a gold medal, but the foundations of a historically glorious career had been laid
@MichaelPhelps
18.09.2000
In the heats of the mens 200m butterfly, this 15 year old made his Olympic debut and listed a personal best time.
Tom Malchow shattered the Olympic record to claim a gold medal, but the foundations of a historically glorious career had been laid
@MichaelPhelps
#57
Gennadi Touretski missed qualifying for 2 Olympics as he finished 3rd in the 1968 trials & 4th in 1972. He took up coaching post that and converted Alexander Popov from a backstroker to a freestyler
The russian thus, promptly presented Touretski his 1996 100mhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille">
Gennadi Touretski missed qualifying for 2 Olympics as he finished 3rd in the 1968 trials & 4th in 1972. He took up coaching post that and converted Alexander Popov from a backstroker to a freestyler
The russian thus, promptly presented Touretski his 1996 100m
" title=" #57Gennadi Touretski missed qualifying for 2 Olympics as he finished 3rd in the 1968 trials & 4th in 1972. He took up coaching post that and converted Alexander Popov from a backstroker to a freestylerThe russian thus, promptly presented Touretski his 1996 100m https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🥇" title="Goldmedaille" aria-label="Emoji: Goldmedaille">" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#58
Karnam Malleshwari became the first woman to win a Olympic medal on this day, 20yrs ago
People in India didn& #39;t see this historic moment till 2hrs later, as DD was showing the Mens Hockey team group fixture
Terrible, I feel for us to not see our only medalist in action LIVE
Karnam Malleshwari became the first woman to win a Olympic medal on this day, 20yrs ago
People in India didn& #39;t see this historic moment till 2hrs later, as DD was showing the Mens Hockey team group fixture
Terrible, I feel for us to not see our only medalist in action LIVE
#59
The first Olympic Champion
James Connolly walked out of Harvard, defying his dean’s advice. By the time he reached Greece, he had gained 12pounds because of surplus eating on the ship
On the 1st day of 1896 Games, he learned his event was 1st and he promptly won goldhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="😅" title="Lächelndes Gesicht mit offenem Mund und Angstschweiß" aria-label="Emoji: Lächelndes Gesicht mit offenem Mund und Angstschweiß">https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🙏" title="Folded hands" aria-label="Emoji: Folded hands">
The first Olympic Champion
James Connolly walked out of Harvard, defying his dean’s advice. By the time he reached Greece, he had gained 12pounds because of surplus eating on the ship
On the 1st day of 1896 Games, he learned his event was 1st and he promptly won gold
https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🙏" title="Folded hands" aria-label="Emoji: Folded hands">" title=" #59The first Olympic ChampionJames Connolly walked out of Harvard, defying his dean’s advice. By the time he reached Greece, he had gained 12pounds because of surplus eating on the shipOn the 1st day of 1896 Games, he learned his event was 1st and he promptly won goldhttps://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="😅" title="Lächelndes Gesicht mit offenem Mund und Angstschweiß" aria-label="Emoji: Lächelndes Gesicht mit offenem Mund und Angstschweiß">https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="🙏" title="Folded hands" aria-label="Emoji: Folded hands">" class="img-responsive" style="max-width:100%;"/>
#60
When Anthony Nesty won 100m butterfly at the Seoul Olympics, it was Suriname& #39;s first gold. He was also the first black swimmer to win an individual Olympic gold medal.
Earlier in 1976, Enith Brigitha of Netherlands had won 2 bronze medals.
When Anthony Nesty won 100m butterfly at the Seoul Olympics, it was Suriname& #39;s first gold. He was also the first black swimmer to win an individual Olympic gold medal.
Earlier in 1976, Enith Brigitha of Netherlands had won 2 bronze medals.
#61
When @EricMoussambani got a wildcard to participate in the Sydney games, he only had access to a swimming pool for an hour everyday (it was in a hotel). He had never seen a Olympic size pool till he reached Sydney in fact, and yet in the 50m freestyle heat, he listed a PB.
When @EricMoussambani got a wildcard to participate in the Sydney games, he only had access to a swimming pool for an hour everyday (it was in a hotel). He had never seen a Olympic size pool till he reached Sydney in fact, and yet in the 50m freestyle heat, he listed a PB.
*100m freestyle heat
