Lot 30159 – Finishing tape from one of the most famous events

Finishing tape from one of the most famous events in Olympic history Length of string from the finishing line of the 1908 London marathon, famously won by Dorando Pietri before he had the title stripped from him after being helped over the finishing line. The string was kept in an envelope by Chief Judge of the race, Mr. A. J. Eggleston, and marked in his hand: “Marathon Tape broken by Dorando”, before being passed to the present owner. Accompanying is a picture postcard of Dorando crossing the line, showing Eggleston amongst the other judges, signed on the reverse by Eggleston. Also included is an oak leaf from the sprig of oak leaves given by the King to the declared winner John Hayes, also with an envelope with “Oak leaf from Kings gift (from historic oaks, Windsor) to Hayes winner of Marathon” in Eggleston’s hand. Unique memorabilia from this most famous of race and iconic sporting moment. Also included is an Italian autobiography of Dorando, “Sports and Athletics in 1908” and other bits and bobs about Dorando. Estimate: € 2’000 – € 3’000