June 9, 1930 – The “Flying Finn,” Paavo Nurmi ran 6 miles at a world record pace of 29:36.4. Just to place that into perspective, the current official world records in the 10,000 meters are held by Kenenisa Bekele with 26:17.53 minutes for men and Almaz Ayana from Ethiopia with 29:17.45 minutes for women.
The Finnish runner, Paavo back in his day dominated distance running in the early 20th century. Nurmi had at one point set 22 official world records at distances between 1500 meters and 20 kilometers! The great athlete also took home nine gold and three silver medals in his twelve events in the Summer Olympic Games he competed.
At his athletic peak, Nurmi was undefeated for 121 races at distances from 800 meters and longer. Throughout his 14-year career, he remained unbeaten in cross country events and the 10,000 meters.
To find more great daily sports history make sure to check out the Sports Jersey Dispatch and Pigskin Dispatch.
More From Sports History Network
Dropping Back: Chuck Noll, Pittsburgh’s Man of Steel
Chuck Noll agreed to do one ad during his 23 years as head coach
1981 Cincinnati Bengals – From Underdogs to AFC Champions
The Cincinnati Bengals joined the AFL in 1968 and were the last expansion team
Why 1973 Minnesota Vikings Were Best Team of Decade
The common opinions that I have read regarding the best Minnesota Vikings team of
Mike Ditka: Ukrainian American Football Legend
Last year, Mike Ditka, a former American football player, coach, and television commentator, celebrated
Australian Football League (AFL) Passion at Its Best: Inside a Lions Game
Brisbane Lions games offer an electrifying live experience filled with energy, tradition, and community
Testosterone and Fitness: What Every Man Should Know
For any man serious about achieving results in the gym, testosterone plays a more
Selling Baseball: How Superstars George Wright and Albert Spalding Impacted Sports In America
George Wright and Al Spalding are two of the most important figures in 19th
From Heartbreak to Triumph: The Red Sox Story
Founded in 1901 as a charter member of the American League, the Boston Red