Mikko Hietanen

Mikko Hietanen was born in Uusikirkko, Karelia, 22 September 1911. He died in Laukaa, Central Finland, 3 February 1999.

Hietanen is best known for winning the gold medal in the men's marathon at the 1946 European Championships in Oslo, Norway.

In Oslo 1946, the marathon race took place on 22 August, which was the first day of the championships. At the same time, the final of the 10000 meter race was being held. As Viljo Heino of Finland was running towards victory in the 10000 meters, his fellow countryman Mikko Hietanen entered Bislett Stadium as leader of the marathon. Inside the stadium, the marathon runners were running clockwise to the finish line using the outside lane. It so happened, that Heino and Hietanen met each other on the track as they were both running towards victory.[2]

In the marathon, Mikko Hietanen had the fastest time in the world in 1946, 1947 and 1948.[3] During his career, he set six new world records at distances between 15 miles and 30000 meters.[4]

Mikko Hietanen was not very successful in the Olympic Games. He took part in the marathon in London 1948, but did not finish the race due to promblems with his Achilles tendon. Four years later, on home soil in Helsinki, he finished in 17th place.[5]

Hietanen became Finnish champion in marathon four years in a row between 1945 and 1948.[6]