Surat Singh Mathur, the pioneer of Indian marathon running, passed away at the age of 90 due to COVID-19. He etched his name in history as the first athlete from independent India to complete an Olympic marathon, achieving this feat at the 1952 Helsinki Games.
Mathur’s journey to the Olympics was not without its challenges. While Chhota Singh was the first Indian marathoner at the Olympics in 1948, he could not finish the race. However, Mathur made his mark by finishing 52nd in Helsinki with a time of 2 hours 58 minutes and 9.2 seconds.
Born in Mohammadpur Majri village near Delhi, Mathur’s athletic prowess shone brightly when he won the bronze medal at the inaugural Asian Games in 1951, trailing behind his compatriot Chhota Singh and the esteemed Japanese runner Katsuo Nishida.
Following Chhota Singh’s absence, Mathur claimed the national championship for the first time, securing his ticket to the Helsinki Olympics. In a competitive field that included the legendary Emil Zatopek, Mathur completed the marathon, marking a significant moment in Indian sports history as all finishers crossed the line within three hours.
Despite Chhota Singh’s dominance in subsequent national competitions, Mathur’s perseverance paid off when he clinched his second national title at the 1954 National Games in Madras. His dedication to the sport and consistent performance elevated him to a position of respect and admiration within the Indian athletic community.
Post-retirement, Mathur continued his association with the Olympics, participating in torch relays and receiving accolades from the Olympic Council of Asia. His contributions extended beyond the track as he served as a teacher and athletics coach, nurturing the next generation of Indian athletes.
Mathur’s legacy as a trailblazer in Indian marathon running continues to inspire aspiring athletes, highlighting the significance of his achievements in paving the way for future generations. His commitment to the sport and unwavering determination serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes.
As the sporting world mourns the loss of a true icon, Mathur’s impact on Indian athletics remains profound, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for athletes striving to reach the pinnacle of success on the global stage.
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