Vincenzo Lombardo

Born in the province of Messina in Sicily, Vincenzo Lombardo was a sprinter who competed at the 1956 and 1960 Olympics, collecting 15 caps in all. He was a three-time Italian Champion in the 400 metres (1952, 1954-55), and set an Italian record in the 200 with 21.1 in Athina on 4 August 1955, which he equalled two years later in Köln. His record was eventually broken by Livio Berruti.

After ending his athletic days, Lombardo continued his work in the Guardia di Finanza (Revenue Guard Corps), a force in which he had a brilliant career, with famous arrests of organized crime figures, until he reached the rank of General. After retirement, he devoted himself energetically to his first passion, athletics, holding an important role in the management field. He was first a councilor, then a commissioner, and finally president of Lombardia’s Regional Committee.

Athletics also continued to give him satisfaction through his daughters, both of whom, Patrizia and Rossana, competed at the Olympics.

Personal Bests: 100 – 10.7 (1955); 200 – 21.1 (1955); 400 – 47.2 (1960).