JAPAN’S WIN IN MARATHON

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLII, Issue 20493, 11 August 1936, Page 7

JAPAN’S WIN IN MARATHON

THRILLING OLYMPIC EVENT STERN STRUGGLES IN RELAY RACES United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph —Cop vrl gh t BERLIN, August 8. Herr Hitler’s entry to the Stadium, amid the plaudits of 100,000 spectators, was the signal for the start of the marathon, which resulted: — Marathon (26 miles 385yds.) (Winner in 1932, J. C. Zabola, Argentine, 2hr 31min 36sec). Aaitei Son (Japan), 2hr 29min 19.2 sec 1 Ernest Harper (Britain), 2hr 31min 2.3 sec 2 Both the first and second men broke the Olympic record. Shortyu Nan (Japan), 2hr 31min 42sec 3 Tamila (Finland), 2hr 32min 43sec 4 Then came Muinonen (Finland), Coleman (South Africa), Robertson (Britain), Gibson (South Africa,, Tarkiainen (Finland), Enochsson (Sweden). Race Described The title-holder, Zabala (Argentine) started at a rattling pace, and led from the arena, followed by Harper. Zabela continued at high speed, and at eight miles was running with marvellous ease, a minute ahead of the Portuguese, Diaz. Huge crowds lined the route, applauding the runners. Harper (England) ran into second place at 13 miles, but well behind Zabala. Son (Korea) joined Harper half-way, where Zabala’s time was Ihr llmin 29sec, and Harper and Son Ihr 12min 19sec. Zabala continued to force the pace, Harper and Son hanging on, grimly waiting his cracking, which came at 18 miles, where the Argentinian halted a few minutes. Son immediately drew ahead of Harper at the heels of Zabala, who again started. After 11 miles of hot concrete road and lined grandstands, the runners reentered the welcome shade of the Grunwald Forest. Zabala retired at 20 miles, leaving the English and Japanese to face a gruelling finish. Son was wildly acclaimed on entering the stadium, amid a trumpet fanfare, and finished extremely fresh. Son is a Korean peasant. The Hindu, Swami, finished 37th in the marathon. He collapsed on the tape and was sent to hospital with stomach cramp. Harper is a Yorkshire bricklayer.