Jean Vaillant

Jean Vaillant was noticed for his long-distance running prowess while serving in the French military in the early 1950s, and he joined the national team in 1954. His first major international tournament was the 1955 Mediterranean Games, where he was fifth in the 1500 metres. He would have to wait until 1962 for his next major appearance, when he was sixth in the 5000 metres at the European Championships, although he nonetheless earned many international caps from meets between these tournaments. He was finally able to attend the Olympics in 1964, where he was eliminated in round one of the 5000 metres and placed 15th in the 10,000 metres. He retired from active competition in 1966, but continued coaching for many years. By career, he had studied law and worked as a customs agent.

Personal Bests: 5000 – 13:58.6 (1964); 10000 – 28:58.4 (1964).