Philipp Boit and Bjorn Daehlie
Kenyan middle-distance runner Philipp Boit had absolutely no skiing experience. Neither did his distance-running teammate and compatriot Henry Bitok. Despite this, the pair of them were flown to Finland to train for the competitive skiing discipline at the 1998 Winter Olympic Games in Nagano, Japan.
Boit was actually forced to practice ‘dry skiing’ for two years after losing his sponsorships.
So unfamiliar was Boit with the discipline that he would end 92nd - and last – in that event. The medal ceremony had already begun, with Boit yet to reach the finish line.
Winner Bjorn Daehlie of Norway waited to receive his medals, delaying the medal ceremony until Boit crossed the finish line in the 10km classic skiing race.
The incident touched Boit so deeply he named one of his sons Daehlie Boit in honour of his competitor.
