Pentti Karvonen

Pentti Karvonen rose to prominence in Finland’s track athletics scene during the early 1950s, specializing in the 3,000 metres steeplechase and cross-country running. His first major international tournament was the 1954 European Championships, where he was fourth in the steeplechase and, the following year, he set two world records in that event with times of 8.47.8 and 8.45.4, also becoming the Finnish national champion. He was chosen to represent Finland in the steeplechase at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, but was unable to compete due to a stomach ulcer. Four years later, in Rome, he was eliminated in round one.

Karvonen retired from active competition in 1962 and took up coaching, which he continued through 1975. He also held various positions in sports administration, including stints as vice-chairman of the Finnish Sports Association in 1981-1983 and 1989-1995. By career, he was a watchmaker.

Personal Best: 3000S – 8:45.4 (1955).