Frederick Kitching facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | 4 July 1886 Cockerton, County Durham, England |
| Died | 11 August 1918 (aged 32) Dunkirk, France |
| Sport | |
| Sport | Track and field |
| Event(s) | Standing long jump |
Frederick Overend Kitching (born July 4, 1886 – died August 11, 1918) was a British athlete. He is remembered for competing in the standing long jump event. This was part of the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Sadly, Frederick Kitching died while serving his country during World War I.
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Frederick Kitching: An Olympic Athlete
Frederick Kitching was born in Cockerton, England. He grew up to become a talented athlete. His chosen sport was the standing long jump. In this event, athletes jump as far as they can from a standing position. Unlike a regular long jump, you don't get a running start.
Competing at the Olympics
In 1908, Frederick Kitching represented Great Britain. He competed in the standing long jump at the Summer Olympics. This was a big achievement for any athlete. The Olympics bring together the best sportspeople from around the world.
Serving During Wartime
Frederick Kitching's life took a different turn during World War I. He chose to help in a special way. He joined the Friends' Ambulance Unit. This group helped injured people during the war. They provided medical care and transport.
A Conscientious Objector
Frederick Kitching was a conscientious objector. This means he believed that fighting in a war was wrong. However, he still wanted to help others. So, he joined the Friends' Ambulance Unit as an orderly. An orderly is someone who helps with medical tasks. They assist doctors and nurses.
His Final Service
Kitching served for two years with the ambulance unit. He was helping people in Dunkirk, France. In August 1918, Dunkirk was attacked. German planes carried out an air raid. During this attack, Frederick Kitching sadly died. He is buried in the Dunkirk Town Cemetery.
See also
- List of Olympians killed in World War I
