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Curt Stone facts for kids

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Curt Stone 1949.jpg
Stone in 1949
Quick facts for kids
Personal information
Born (1922-11-19)November 19, 1922
Brooklyn, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died July 30, 2021(2021-07-30) (aged 98)
Kent, Ohio, U.S.
Height 175 cm
Weight 61 kg
Sport
Sport Athletics
Event(s) 1500–10,000 m, steeplechase
Club New York Athletic Club
Achievements and titles
Personal best(s) 1500 m – 3:55.2 (1950)
5000 m – 14:27.0 (1952)
10,000 m – 30:33.4 (1952)
3000 mS – 9:08.6 (1950)
Medal record
Men's athletics
Representing the  United States
Pan American Games
Gold 1951 Buenos Aires 10,000 metres
Gold 1951 Buenos Aires Steeplechase

Curtis Charles "Curt" Stone (born November 19, 1922 – died July 30, 2021) was an amazing American long-distance runner. He was known for his speed and endurance.

Curt competed in the 5000-meter race at three Olympic Games. These were the 1948, 1952, and 1956 Olympics. His best finish was sixth place in 1948. He also ran in the 10,000-meter race at the 1952 Olympics.

Early Life and Military Service

Curt Stone was born in Brooklyn, Pennsylvania. He grew up with a love for running.

During World War II, Curt served his country. Starting in 1943, he was part of the U.S. Army Air Forces. He worked as a finance clerk in England for about a year and a half.

A True Sportsman: The Pan American Games

One of Curt's most famous moments happened at the 1951 Pan American Games. This event took place in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

He was competing in the 3,000-meter steeplechase race. This race involves running and jumping over hurdles and a water pit. Curt was far ahead of everyone else.

As he neared the finish line, he did something unexpected. He slowed down to let his teammate, Browning Ross, catch up. They crossed the finish line together, holding hands!

Officials discussed if this was allowed. But after looking closely at the finish photo, they decided Curt was first. At these same Games, Curt also won the 10,000-meter race. He placed fourth in the 1500-meter final. This shows his great skill and sportsmanship.

Running Achievements and Later Life

Curt Stone was a very successful runner. He won 13 titles from the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU).

  • He won the 6-miles/10,000-meter race four times (1951–1954).
  • He won the 5000-meter race three times (1947–1948 and 1952).

After his military service, Curt went to college. He graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 1947. Later, in 1963, he earned a PhD in education from the same university.

He then became a professor at Kent State University. Curt Stone passed away on July 30, 2021, at the age of 98. He left behind a legacy as a talented runner and a true sportsman.

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