Dorando Pietri
Biographical information
| Roles | Competed in Olympic Games • Competed in Intercalated Games |
|---|---|
| Sex | Male |
| Full name | Dorando•Pietri |
| Used name | Dorando•Pietri |
| Born | 16 October 1885 in Correggio, Reggio Emilia (ITA) |
| Died | 7 February 1942 in Sanremo, Imperia (ITA) |
| Affiliations | La Patria Carpi |
| NOC |  Italy |
Biography
Dorando Pietri is the most famous loser in Olympic history. Entering the stadium at the end of the 1908 Olympic marathon he held a comfortable lead over Johnny Hayes (USA), but then collapsed five times and had to be helped across the finishing line. This assistance from well-meaning officials resulted in his disqualification but, in defeat, Pietri’s fame far exceeded that of the winner. Queen Alexandra presented him with a large gold cup which was an exact replica of the one awarded to the Olympic champion, and Irving Berlin wrote the popular song “Dorando” in his honor. Pietri turned professional shortly after the 1908 Olympics and enjoyed a successful career in America and Europe.
Personal Best: Mar – 2-38:49 (1910).
Results
| Games | Discipline (Sport) / Event | NOC / Team | Pos | Medal | As | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1906 Intercalated Games | Athletics | ITA |
Dorando Pietri | |||
| Marathon, Men (Intercalated) | ||||||
| 1908 Summer Olympics | Athletics | ITA |
Dorando Pietri | |||
| 5 miles, Men (Olympic) | ||||||
| Marathon, Men (Olympic) | ||||||
| 3 miles, Team, Men (Olympic) | Italy |