Pietri 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

Joachim Pietri, French lawyer and public servant
Joachim Pietri (Joseph Marie Pietri, 1820-1902), French lawyer and public servant, Senator of Corsica, Prefect of Police in Paris. Date: circa 1860s

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

Une Partie de Billard au Cercle Imperial, caricature of Second Empire society
XIR161362 Une Partie de Billard au Cercle Imperial, caricature of Second Empire society, issue 33 of Actualites, 1870 (coloured engraving) by French School, (19th century); Musee d Art et d Histoire

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

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In the historic Olympic Games of 1908, held in London, a marathon race took place that would forever be etched in the annals of sports history. The victor of this grueling event was none other than Hayes, who emerged triumphant amidst fierce competition and unwavering determination. The tragedy that unfolded during this marathon race is still remembered to this day. Joachim Pietri, a French lawyer and public servant, became an unfortunate victim of exhaustion as he neared the finish line. Despite his valiant efforts, he succumbed to physical strain and collapsed just meters away from glory. However, it was another Pietri who captured the attention and sympathy of spectators worldwide. Dorando Pietri's unforgettable finish at the first modern Olympic marathon left everyone in awe. In a display of sheer perseverance and indomitable spirit, he crossed the finish line with every ounce of strength remaining within him. This captivating moment was immortalized in photographs such as "The Finish of the Marathon, " where Dorando Pietri's triumph is frozen in time for generations to admire. It serves as a testament to human resilience and exemplifies what it means to push oneself beyond limits. Beyond athletics lies another facet of life - leisurely pursuits enjoyed by society members during Second Empire times. A caricature titled "Une Partie de Billard au Cercle Imperial" offers us a glimpse into their world filled with refined entertainment. As time progressed after these remarkable events, marathons continued to captivate people around the globe. Runners gathered once again on April 3rd, 1909 for yet another intense race through New York City streets. The starting line buzzed with anticipation as participants prepared themselves mentally and physically for what lay ahead. The legacy left behind by those who participated in these races remains intact today – reminding us all that greatness can be achieved through dedication and perseverance alone.