George Orton

Runner

Birthday January 10, 1873

Birth Sign Capricorn

Birthplace Canada

DEATH DATE Jun 26, 1958 (85)

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About

He was the winner of Canada's first Olympic gold medal, which he earned at the 1900 Olympics in the 2500 meter steeplechase; he also won bronze in the 400 meter hurdles that year.

Before Fame

He was paralyzed for many years as a child, after falling out of a tree, but he regained full body movement at age 12, and became a fantastic athlete.

Trivia

Later in life he coached track and field at his alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania.

Family Life

He was born in Strathroy, Ontario.

Associated With

He is a member of the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame, which includes legends such as James Naismith.