Emil Zátopek
Czech long-distance runner and Olympic champion
Born
September 19th, 1922
102 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2000
24 years ago — 78 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Czech Republic
Links & References
Zátopek was a long-distance runner from Czechoslovakia. He competed in the 1948 and 1952 Olympic Games, achieving remarkable success. At the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, he won gold medals in the 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, and the marathon, becoming the first athlete to win all three events in a single Olympic Games. His unique training methods and relentless competitive spirit set him apart in the world of athletics. Zátopek's running style, characterized by his distinctive laborious breathing, made him an iconic figure in sports history. He also set multiple world records during his career.
Won three gold medals at the 1952 Olympics
Set numerous world records in distance running
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