Harald Arbin

Harald Arbin was a versatile athlete who competed in track and field, diving, rowing and football. In 1890 (or 1892), he set a first, though unofficial Swedish record in the 100 m dash with 11.0 seconds, as well as in the 200 m (26.4 seconds). He was entered in four athletic events for the first Olympic Games in Athena (Athens) in 1896, but did not participate because he could not afford the costs. In the same year, he became quadruple champion at the first Swedish championships in athletics: 100 m, 110 m hurdles, long jump and javelin throw. In 1897, he defended his title in the javelin throw and placed second in the 100 m and 110 m hurdles. He claimed his last podium in 1898, winning bronze in the javelin throw. Arbin set three, still, unofficial world records. His 10.8 seconds 100m at the 1896 Swedish championships equalled the world record by Luther Cary and others. In 1892 the threw the discus 26.20 m, and in 1894, the javelin (best hand) 42.95 m, both considered world records at the time.

Later, Arbin focused on diving, becoming the Swedish champion in various dives. At the 1908 Olympics in London, he was eliminated in round two of the platform diving, and in Stockholm in 1912, Arbin placed sixth in the final, at 45 years of age.

Arbin worked as a clerk and a merchant in Göteborg (Gothenburg). In 1899, he married Anna Paulina Landqvist, and together they had two children.

Personal Bests: 100 m – 10.8 (1896); JT – 42,95 (WR) (1894)