Fred Appleby facts for kids

Frederick Appleby (born October 30, 1879 – died April 7, 1956) was a famous British long-distance runner. He was known for his amazing speed and endurance. In 1902, he even set a world record for running 15 miles! He also beat the top runner of his time, Alfred Shrubb, twice. Frederick Appleby competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics as a marathon runner, but he did not finish the race.

Appleby's Running Career

Frederick Appleby was a very talented runner. Between 1900 and 1902, he often finished among the top six at the important AAA Championships. In 1902, he came in second place in the 4-mile (6.44 km) race, right behind the champion, Alfred Shrubb.

Beating the Best: Alfred Shrubb

In 1902, Appleby achieved something remarkable: he beat Alfred Shrubb twice in 15-mile (24.14 km) races. Shrubb was considered the best distance runner in the world at that time.

First Victory Against Shrubb

The first big race was on April 19 at Fallowfield. Twelve other runners also competed, including Albert Aldridge. Even though Shrubb was better at shorter distances, he was still expected to win. Shrubb took a big lead early on. Appleby started slowly but steadily moved up. He caught and passed Shrubb, who was having trouble with his leg, with just one mile left. Appleby won the race in 1 hour, 22 minutes, and 41 seconds. Aldridge also passed Shrubb and finished second.

Setting a World Record

The second race against Shrubb happened on July 21 at Stamford Bridge. Appleby won again, and this time he set a new world record! His time was 1 hour, 20 minutes, and 4.6 seconds. This broke both the amateur record by Sid Thomas and the professional record by William Howitt. Appleby led for most of this race. Shrubb stayed close until the very last lap. Even though Shrubb lost by 11 seconds, his time was also faster than the old records. Appleby also set world records for his times at 13 miles and 14 miles during this race. His time at 12.5 miles (20.12 km) was also a record for that distance and for 20,000 meters.

Life After 1902

After his amazing year in 1902, Appleby focused more on his job as a dentist. However, he still continued to compete in cross-country races.

Olympic Marathon Challenge

In 1908, Appleby was chosen to be part of Britain's team for the 1908 Summer Olympics marathon. It's not fully clear why he was picked, as he didn't finish the main tryout race. In the actual Olympic marathon, he had to drop out around 19 miles. He was among the leaders at the time but experienced problems with his feet.

Brief Professional Running Career

In 1909, Appleby briefly became a professional runner. He competed in several races in North America.

Facing Paul Acoose

He raced against Paul Acoose, a talented Native Canadian runner, twice in 15-mile races. Acoose won the first race, setting an indoor world record. In their second race, something unusual happened. Small sharp objects were found on the track. Appleby, who wore thick rubber-soled shoes, was not bothered by them. However, Acoose, who wore moccasins, had to stop because the objects went through his shoes. Appleby won that rematch.

Club and Return to Dentistry

Frederick Appleby represented the London running club called Herne Hill Harriers. After his short time as a professional runner, he went back to working as a dentist.