Emilio Torres

Colombian middle-distance runner Emilio Torres began his sporting career as a boxer in his local gym before switching to track and field athletics. In 1932 Torres became the first national champion in the 1,500 metres after the previous years’ results were disputed. Four years later he was selected as part of the five-man delegation to compete at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Upon his arrival in at the Games, Torres noticed that other athletes were wearing shoes with running spikes, something he had never seen before. He also observed athletes using techniques for training, including warming up before a race, which was also new to the Colombian. He ran in the 1,500 metres in Berlin where he came last in his heat. Torres ended his professional athletics career in 1942 but later competed in the masters category at the age of 65.

Personal Best: 1500 – unknown.