Athletics at the 1904 Summer Olympics - Men's Marathon

General Information

• Event Date: August 30, 1904
• Location: St. Louis, United States
• Distance: 24 miles 1500 yards (approximately 40 km)
• Competitors: 32 runners from 7 nations
• Nations Participating: United States, France, Cuba, Greece, Orange River Colony, Great Britain, Canada

Key Outcomes

• Gold Medalist: Thomas Hicks (USA) - Time: 3:28:53
• Silver Medalist: Albert Corey (France)
• Bronze Medalist: Arthur Newton (USA)

Notable Incidents

• Frederick Lorz: Initially greeted as the winner but disqualified for covering part of the course by car.
• Thomas Hicks: The actual winner despite severe exhaustion and hallucination due to being given brandy, raw eggs, and strychnine.
• Andarn Carvajal: Finished 4th despite stomach cramps after consuming rotten apples.

Historical Context

• This marathon was the third appearance of the event in the modern Olympics.
• The marathon included the first two black Africans at the Olympics, Len Taunyane and Jan Mashiani, who were Tswana men.
• Significant Returnees: Arthur L. Newton and other notable American runners who were previous Boston Marathon winners.

Challenges Faced

• The race was held in extreme heat, with temperatures around 90°F (32°C).
• The course was dusty with minimal water sources, exacerbating dehydration issues.
• The marathon course was filled with obstacles, including traffic and pedestrians.
• Poor organization: Last-minute changes due to weather, lack of sufficient water stations.

Competition Format

• The course began with laps around a stadium, followed by a rural route.
• The start time (3:00 pm) was poorly chosen, contributing to the harsh conditions.

Other Noteworthy Performances

• William Garcia: Nearly died from internal injuries due to inhaling the dust.
• Albert Corey: Competed with inconsistent national representation.
• South African Entrants: Len Taunyane and Jan Mashiani finished 9th and 12th respectively.

Dehydration Study

• James Edward Sullivan, chief organizer, conducted a study on 'purposeful dehydration,' leading to severe conditions.

Schedule

• Race Date and Time: Tuesday, August 30, 1904, 3:00 PM

Results Summary

1. Thomas Hicks (USA) - 3:28:53
2. Albert Corey (France) - 3:34:52
3. Arthur Newton (USA) - 3:47:33
4. Andarn Carvajal (Cuba) - Time Unknown
5. Len Taunyane (South Africa)
6. Jan Mashiani (South Africa)

Conclusion

The 1904 marathon was marred by extreme conditions, poor organization, and controversy, yet it remains a significant historical event due to its unique challenges and the participation of pioneering athletes.