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Jim Ryun falls at the 1972 Munich Olympics
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Jim Ryun falls at the 1972 Munich Olympics
Athletics - 1972 Munich Olympics - Mens 1500m Round One Heat Four
Jim Ryun of USA has his heel clipped by Ghanas Billy Fordjour, as Ugandas Vitus Ashaba (#912) runs by with 500 metres to go in the Olympiastadion, Munich, West Germany.
Ryun, the world record holder and a favourite for the gold medal, got up a few seconds later but was hopelessly behind and consequently did not qualify for the semi-final. The US Olympic Committee appealed, claiming Ryun was tripped, but it was rejected by the IOC and he was out of the competition
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this iconic print from the 1972 Munich Olympics, we witness a heartbreaking moment for American middle-distance runner Jim Ryun. As he competes in the Men's 1500m Round One Heat Four, disaster strikes when his heel is clipped by Ghana's Billy Fordjour. The force of the collision sends Ryun tumbling to the ground, while Uganda's Vitus Ashaba swiftly passes him with only 500 meters remaining. At this point in his career, Ryun was not only the world record holder but also considered a strong contender for the gold medal. However, fate had other plans as he struggled to regain his footing and fell hopelessly behind. Consequently, he failed to qualify for the semi-final round. The United States Olympic Committee refused to accept defeat and lodged an appeal with claims that Ryun was tripped during the race. Unfortunately for them, their plea fell on deaf ears as it was rejected by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). With no chance of redemption or further participation in the competition, Ryun's dreams were shattered. This powerful image captured by Colorsport photographer Stewart Fraser immortalizes both triumph and tragedy within seconds. It serves as a reminder that even our greatest athletes are vulnerable to unforeseen circumstances that can alter their destinies forever.
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