The Italian Job

A story worthy of Sherlock Holmes? Italy's Pietri Dorando won London's 1908 marathon, but was disqualified when the US team complained Dorando was assisted by officials (after fighting from behind to take the lead, Dorondo took a wrong turn when finishing the race and fell over when officials redirected him; they then helped him back on his feet). Queen Alexandra gave Dorando a special gold trophy for his bravery, while Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (alleged to be the official on the right) wrote about his plight, making the Italian an international celebrity.