Dorando Collection

Dorando Pietri finishing the first modern Olympic marathon, London, 1908. The marathon at the London Olympics of 1908 was run in ususually hot conditions

Hayes winning the Marathon Race. Olympic Games, London 1908
Photograph of John Hayes, American athlete, in the final leg of the marathon race at the London Olympic Games in 1908. Dorando Pietri of Italy collapsed after entering the stadium ahead of the pack

Olympics / 1908 / Marathon
THE MARATHON Dorando Pietri passing through Wembley. He finished first but was disqualified because he was helped at the finish. He was awarded a special cup

Tragedy of the Marathon Race... London Olympics 1908
Front cover from The Graphic. Dorando Pietri of Italy collapsed after entering the stadium ahead of the pack during the 1908 London Olympics

Wounded soldiers and sailors feeding seals at a tea-concert (litho)
608519 Wounded soldiers and sailors feeding seals at a tea-concert (litho) by Begg, Samuel (fl.1886-1916); Private Collection; (add.info.: Joffre)

The finish of the marathon, Olympic Games, London, 1908, (c1920). Dorando Pietri of Italy, the first runner to enter the stadium, collapsed several times and ran the wrong way

MARATHON RACE, 1909. Runners racing at a marathon in New York on 3 April 1909. Left to right: Tom Longboat, Alfred Shrubb, Henri St. Yves, Dorando Pietri. Photograph, 1909

MARATHON RACE, 1909. Runners at the starting line for a marathon in New York on 3 April 1909. Left to right: Afred Shrubb, Pietri Dorando, Henri St. Yves, Tom Longboat, Johnny Hayes, Matthew Maloney

DORANDOs MARATHON 1908
Pietri Dorando of Italy wins the marathon from Windsor to the Olympic stadium, but because he is assisted during the final metres he is disqualified

Olympics / 1908 / Marathon
THE MARATHON Dorando of Italy finishes first but is disqualified because he is helped at the finish : however he is awarded a special medal

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"Dorando: Triumph and Tragedy at the 1908 London Olympics Marathon" In a historic moment at the 1908 Olympic Games in London, Hayes emerged victorious in the grueling marathon race. The event was filled with anticipation and excitement as athletes from around the world gathered to showcase their endurance and determination. However, amidst this celebration of human strength, tragedy struck during the marathon race. Dorando Pietri, an Italian runner, captured both hearts and headlines with his valiant effort to cross the finish line. As exhaustion took its toll on him, he stumbled multiple times before finally collapsing just meters away from victory. The heart-wrenching scene unfolded before spectators' eyes as officials rushed to aid Dorando. Despite being disqualified for receiving assistance, his spirit remained unbroken. This iconic image of resilience became etched in history - a symbol of unwavering determination that transcended mere athletic competition. Years later, lithographs depicted wounded soldiers and sailors feeding seals at a tea-concert - a poignant reminder of how sport can bring solace even in times of adversity. Meanwhile, photographs immortalized Dorando's unforgettable finish at the first modern Olympic marathon held in London. Dorando's legacy extended beyond that fateful day; he continued to inspire runners worldwide. In 1909, New York witnessed another thrilling marathon race where dedicated athletes lined up eagerly at the starting line – driven by dreams akin to those ignited by Dorando's remarkable journey. Today we remember "Dorandos Marathon 1908" as more than just an Olympic event but rather a testament to human resilience and perseverance against all odds. The story of Hayes winning may have claimed gold medals but it is Dorando who remains forever etched in our collective memory – reminding us that true champions are not always defined by victory alone.