Martin Sheridan, an Irish-born American, was considered the most versatile athlete of the turn of the century. He won nine Olympic gold medals, five of them gold and five of which were won at the 1906 unofficial games. In London Sheridan won both the discus and the Greek-style discus and placed third in the standing long jump. Sheridan's versatile abilities, as power-man and jumper became useful in his police work where he was appointed personal body guard to the governor of New York.

	The most well known figure to emerge from the Games was neither a champion nor a medalist. In deference to the British Royalty's interest in the marathon, the race was run from Windsor Castle to the Olympic stadium. The 26 mile route was lengthened by 385 yards so that the runners would finish in front of the royal box. These additional yards would prove disasterous for Italian Dorando Pietri. Pietri entered the stadium in the lead and would have won had the finish line not been extended for the royals. Completely exhausted by this last additional stretch, the marathoner collapsed and was helped to his feet five times before crossing the finish line. He was disqualified for the assistance and American John Hayes was awarded the victory.