• Paris 1900

Paris 1900 - Quick Hits

October 12, 2011

Paris 1900:

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In the shade
These Games were organised against a backdrop of general indifference as the Parisians were preoccupied with the International Exhibition. The competition was more like an international meeting than a true Olympic Games.

Starting them young
Following the example of the unknown soldier, the Olympics had its own unknown medalist. In rowing, in the coxed pairs, the Dutch team won gold using an 8-or 9-year-old boy as cox. He was brought in to replace the named cox, who was deemed too heavy. After the race, the unexpected Olympic champion disappeared without leaving his name. In any case, he undoubtedly remains the youngest competitor in Olympic history and the youngest champion.

Better late than never
A gardener at the Racing Club of France, Michel Theato won the marathon but only received his reward 12 years later when he was acknowledged as the official winner.

The late show
Podium finishers received their medals beginning in 1912. In 1900, they were given small presents as a means of compensation: plates, umbrellas or wallets.

Tricky circuit
Australia's Frederick Lane won the obstacle swimming race - the obstacles were boats that were cleared by swimming under them.

God's wishes
The first pole vault competition was held on a Sunday. The event initially was rescheduled because the Americans wanted to respect Sunday as a rest day. But the organisers changed their minds, and several Americans left the stadium. To appease the "visitors from the other side of the ocean," a second competition was held a few days later, although results that were an improvement from those from the initial competition were not taken into account.

Tree trouble
A superb tree stood in the middle of the area used by shot putters and discus throwers. Nothing suggested beforehand the importance this would have in the competition.

Attention swimmers
The first series of swimming events, which took place in the Seine, was a model of organisation, as river traffic continued without interruption.

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