Summer Olympic Games 2.1 WORLD
Which athlete was the first to win the modern Olympic marathon in 1896, becoming a national hero in Greece?
75% of players answered correctly.
THE CORRECT ANSWER: Spiridon Louis
During the first Games of the modern era in 1896, the marathon event had immense symbolic importance for the Greek people, echoing the legend of the soldier Pheidippides. Spiridon Louis, a modest water carrier, won this legendary race in just under three hours, to the cheers of a delirious Panathenaic stadium.His victory saved the sporting honor of Greece, which had not yet shone in athletics during these Games. Fun fact, it is said that he stopped along the way for a glass of wine at a local inn before setting off again.His consecration was such that King George I of Greece offered him any reward; Louis humbly chooses a new cart for his work. He remained for eternity the first great hero of modern Olympism, embodying perseverance and patriotism.