Alain Mimoun (born January 1, 1921) is a retired French[1] runner and Olympic marathon champion.
[edit] Early life
Born in El Telagh, then in French Algeria, Mimoun lost several years of competition to World War II. After the war, he was the French champion in the 5000 metres and 10000 metres.
[edit] Olympic career
Mimoun's path to an Olympic gold medal was blocked in both 1948 and 1952 by Czech runner Emil Zátopek. Mimoun won silver medals in 10000 metres in 1948 and 1952 as well as another silver medal in 5000 metres in 1952. His second place finishes behind Zátopek gave him the nickname "Zátopek's Shadow." He finally won a gold medal in the marathon at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne.
Mimoun made the French team for the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. He won his final national championship in 1966, twenty years after his debut.
[edit] Legacy
The athletics stadium in Bugeat, France is named in Mimoun's honor.
[edit] References
- ^ Alain Mimoun Biography, universalis.fr
| Persondata |
| Name |
Mimoun, Alain |
| Alternative names |
|
| Short description |
Athletics (sport) competitor |
| Date of birth |
January 1, 1921 |
| Place of birth |
|
| Date of death |
|
| Place of death |
|
France
