Shizo Kanakuri, a name synonymous with perseverance and sportsmanship, holds a unique place in Olympic history. His journey, marked by both triumph and tragedy, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the human will.
Kanakuri, one of the first Japanese athletes to compete in the Olympics, participated in the 1912 Stockholm Games. The marathon, held during a scorching heatwave, proved to be a grueling test for the runners. Kanakuri, succumbing to the extreme conditions, withdrew from the race and was kindly taken in by a local family.
Overwhelmed by embarrassment and a sense of failure, Kanakuri quietly returned to Japan without informing the race officials. His disappearance led to his name being added to Sweden’s missing persons list, a poignant reminder of his unexpected exit. 
Despite this setback, Kanakuri continued his athletic pursuits and participated in subsequent Olympic Games. In a remarkable turn of events, Swedish television invited him back to Stockholm in 1967 to finally complete the marathon he had abandoned 54 years prior.
At the age of 76, Kanakuri, with a smile and a wave, crossed the finish line. His official marathon time: 54 years, 8 months, 6 days, 5 hours, 32 minutes, and 20.3 seconds. This extraordinary feat earned him a place in the Guinness World Records and solidified his legacy as the “father of the Japanese marathon.”
Kanakuri’s story transcends the realm of sports. It is a tale of resilience, sportsmanship, and the enduring human spirit. His journey serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, perseverance can lead to unexpected triumphs.
