In the year 1932, he was not able to participate in the Olympics as took money for running and as per rule, he was considered as profesional.
In his debut Olympics at the year 1920, Paavo Nurmi participated in 4 events, where he was successful in winning 3 gold medals in cross country team event, 10000 meter and in cross country event. He came second in 5000 meter running event. He continued his victory by wining 5 gold medals in all the 5 events in which he participated. The events were 5000 meter, 1500 meter and 3000 meter along with both the events in cross country. The duration in between the events were only 29 minuted in between the 5000 m and 1500 m. The cross country event happened for the last in that year due to the sickness of a number of participants because of the heat and they had to be admitted to hospital. Others abandoned the race because of the heat. Paavo Nurmi could not try his luck and talent for the second time in 10000m event as the Finnish officials did not permit him to run for his health. In protest, Paavo Nurmi became very angry and right after returning to Finland, set a world record in 10000m run which was sure to last for at least 13 years.
The last Olympics, where Paavo Nurmi took part was in Summer Olympics in 1928, where he won 2 silver medals in 3000 m and 5000m and winning the title of 10000m. Till date, Paavo Nurmi is the only athlete to win the maximum number of Olympic medals. He also holds the title of 'Greatest Track and Field athlete'. He lighted the flame of Olympics in the year 1952 at Summer Olympics, which was held in Helsinki. He was given a grand state funeral on his death due to his contribution to the state and his popularity.
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