Disclaimer
Although all efforts have been taken to ensure that the posts in this blog are accurate, at times mistakes do happen and erroneous information gets posted. Readers are requested not to take the information posted in this blog at face value and verify other credible and reliable sources.
Liu Xiang born July 13, 1983 is China's most successful athlete. Liu was a 21 year old student at the East China Normal University when he won gold in the 110m hurdles during the 2004 Athens Olympics. He has the record of being the first Chinese (and also the first Asian) to win an Olympic gold in a men's track and field event. He is also the first Chinese athlete to win the "triple crown" of athletics: World Record Holder, World Champion and Olympic Champion.
He could not compete in the 2008 Beijing Olympics due to injury. Liu maintains a low profile, but is one of the most popular athletes in China.
Ivar Ballangrud from Norway was one of the speed skating greats of his era. He was one of the best speed skaters for 15 years from 1924 to 1939. Born on 7 March 1904, he was a member of the "Handeland Trio". Ivar made his international debut when he was only 19 years old. He took part in the 1928 Olympics and won gold in the 5000m event. He also won a bronze medal in the 1500m in the same winter Olympics.
During the 1932 Lake Placid Winter Olympics, Ivar did not have luck on his side and only won a silver medal in the 10000m event. However, his luck was about to be changed as he won gold in the 500m, 5000m and 10000m speed skating events during the 1936 Winter Olympics. He also won a silver medal in the 1500m speed skating event in the same Winter Olympics. He is hailed a national hero in his country and is greatly admired for his feats in the world of speed skating. He died on 1 June 1969.
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