大象传媒

Today's tale starts way back at the and involves Korea, Japan and a marathon runner named (pictured above right).

so Sohn was forced to compete for the Japanese team and adopt the Japanese name Son Kitei.

Sohn had set a new in the 26-and-a-bit-mile race of 2:26:42 the previous year and took his form to Germany where he won gold.

However, further humiliation followed when the was played at the medal ceremony.

Sohn, a fervent nationalist, and fellow Korean Nam Seung-yong, who finished third, bowed their heads in silent protest.

In recognition of his achievement in becoming the first Korean to win an Olympic medal, Sohn carried his national flag at the opening ceremony of the 1948 Games in London, the first attended by an independent Korea.

And in 1988 he brought tears to the eyes of his nation when, as a 76-year-old, he brought the Olympic flame into the stadium to open the Seoul Games.

Which performances have reduced you to tears over the years?

For me, I admit to an emotional five minutes while Sir Steve Redgrave was presented with his , while in the 400m in Barcelona really got the tears flowing.

Finally, a quick fact to impress your mates with - 88 years ago in Antwerp, Italian fencer Nedo Nadi (pictured above left) achieved the unique feat of winning an Olympic title in each of the , foil, epee and sabre at the same Games,