The ecstasy and agony of running lends itself to dramatic photography. From photo finishes and high-fashion outfits to phenomenal feats of heroism, our sport has a rich archive of incredible, iconic imagery. He collapsed several times during the race and was eventually disqualified for receiving assistance, but won the sympathies of the crowds for enduring to the finish.
Queen Alexandra was so outraged by his disqualification that she later presented him with a special cup.
The Olympics were the first at which women were allowed to compete in track and field events β or five of them, at least: the m, the 4 x m relay, the high jump, discus and the m.
Sixteen-year-old American Betty Robinson became a sensation when she won the very first m gold, just months after her first ever race. She was celebrated with ticker tape parades back home β but then, every woman in that race was making history. A massive new stadium was built and the games were the first broadcast on TV around the world. Though photo technology was used as early as , the Olympics were the first to use it to determine placings in the m β something that is now indispensable.
It took a further 20 years to become standard. Here he is gurning his way to m victory against great friend and rival Alain Mimoun. By covering those four and a tiny bit laps in 3 mins, Within weeks, his great rival John Landy ran a mile in 3 mins Diane Leather never achieved the household name status that Bannister did, but she too demolished barriers.
