On the verge of collapse, marathon runner Dorando Pietri is helped across the finish line at the 1908 London Olympics. The Italian was subsequently disqualified and the title given to John Hayes of the U.S.
Pushed to the limit —
On the verge of collapse, marathon runner Dorando Pietri is helped across the finish line at the 1908 London Olympics. The Italian was subsequently disqualified and the title given to John Hayes of the U.S.
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Marathon runners set off from Windsor Castle, cheered on by crowds as they race towards the Olympic Stadium in White City.
And they're off! —
Marathon runners set off from Windsor Castle, cheered on by crowds as they race towards the Olympic Stadium in White City.
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A marathon runner is examined by a doctor ahead of the event. However the check-up didn't appear to help Pietri, who fell down five times in the last 2km of the race. He was helped back up by umpires each time.
Fitness first —
A marathon runner is examined by a doctor ahead of the event. However the check-up didn't appear to help Pietri, who fell down five times in the last 2km of the race. He was helped back up by umpires each time.
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The Swedish team march past spectators during the opening ceremony, held on April 27.
Let the Games begin —
The Swedish team march past spectators during the opening ceremony, held on April 27.
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Danish gymnasts cut a stark contrast in their white finery against the backdrop of the arena, on July 14.
White City —
Danish gymnasts cut a stark contrast in their white finery against the backdrop of the arena, on July 14.
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British swimmer Henry Taylor with his very proud trainer after winning the 400 meters.
Swim success —
British swimmer Henry Taylor with his very proud trainer after winning the 400 meters.
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Captains of the Swedish and English tug-of-war teams shake hands at the tournament held in Crystal Palace.
A gentlemen's game —
Captains of the Swedish and English tug-of-war teams shake hands at the tournament held in Crystal Palace.
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The Swedish water polo team training in London.
In the deep end —
The Swedish water polo team training in London.
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A packed stadium cheers on cyclists during a race. More than 100 years later, the 2012 London Olympics boasts a specially-built Velodrome for cycling, with seating for 6,000 competitors.
Roar of the crowd —
A packed stadium cheers on cyclists during a race. More than 100 years later, the 2012 London Olympics boasts a specially-built Velodrome for cycling, with seating for 6,000 competitors.
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