Rashid Sharafetdinov

Rashid Sharafedtinov was the best Soviet long distance runner in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In 1971, he became the first Soviet athlete to run 10K less than 28 minutes (27:56.26), and with that time, he still ranks as fourth in a Russian 10K all-time list (thru 2012). Sharafedtinov first came into fame in 1967, when he won silver in the 3,000 at the European Indoor Championships. Sharafedtinov also medaled twice at the outdoor European Championships, winning silver in 5K in 1969 and bronze in 10K in 1971. He also won the 10K at the 1970 Universiade. Domestically, Sharafedtinov won three Soviet titles in 5K (1968-69, 1971), three titles in 10K (1970-72) and five times in cross-country running (1968-72). During and after his sporting career, Sharafedtinov served in a Soviet and later Russian border guard, eventually rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Personal Bests: 5000 – 13:33.6 (1971); 10000 – 27:56.26 (1971).