Keizo Yamada facts for kids
Keizo Yamada (山田 敬蔵, Yamada Keizō, January 30, 1927 – April 2, 2020) was a Japanese long-distance runner. He was born in Akita, Japan. Yamada became famous for his amazing wins in major marathons around the world. He also proudly represented his country at the Olympic Games.
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Keizo Yamada: A Marathon Champion
Keizo Yamada was a celebrated athlete from Japan. He was born on January 30, 1927, in Akita. Yamada became known for his incredible endurance and speed in long-distance running, especially marathons. A marathon is a very long race, usually about 42 kilometers (26 miles). Runners need a lot of training and determination to finish one.
His Big Wins
Keizo Yamada had some very important victories during his running career. These wins showed how talented and dedicated he was to the sport.
- 1953 Boston Marathon: One of his most famous achievements was winning the Boston Marathon in 1953. This is one of the oldest and most respected marathon races in the world. Winning it made him a global running star.
- 1956 Fukuoka Marathon: He also won the Fukuoka Marathon in 1956. This race is held in Japan and is another very important event for marathon runners.
Running for Japan at the Olympics
Keizo Yamada had the honor of representing Japan at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland. Competing in the Olympics is a huge dream for many athletes. He ran in the marathon event and finished in 26th place. This was a great achievement, showing his skill on the world's biggest sports stage.
His Legacy
Keizo Yamada passed away on April 2, 2020. He is remembered as a true champion and an inspiration in the world of long-distance running. His dedication to the sport and his impressive wins continue to inspire young athletes today.
