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
Indy 500 Race Day: On The Grid
In this episode, Tim Coffeen will take you inside the garage as an Indy
Sports History On This Day: May 24
May 24, 1935 – A landmark event occurred at the ballpark in Cincinnati, Ohio. President
How Would You Rank the Best NFL Teams of the 1970s?
Many would argue the NFL during the 1970s was the best era in league
Sports History On This Day: May 23
May 23, 1922 – Boxer Gene Tunney suffered his only professional defeat in a 15-round
When George Halas Went To War; What Happened to the Chicago Bears?
George Halas, the founder and also coach of the Chicago Bears for many decades,
The Celtic’s Final Stand: Story of the 1969 NBA Finals
The decade of the 1960s in the NBA belonged to the Boston Celtics. In
Sports History On This Day: May 22
May 22, 1884 – Pitcher Hugh Daily struck out 13 hitters. That may not sound
Sports History On This Day: May 21
May 21, 1930 – This story is pretty incredible! New Yankees legend Babe Ruth hit three Home