The first real World Championships took place in Paris ( 50th anniversary of the FIG ) Savolainen was 23, and the best all-rounder among 44 athletes from 10 nations.
At that time the all-around consisted of 14 exercises, five of which were from track and field athletics. Savolainen started sports as a decathlete. At 21 in 1928 he was third on Pommel Horse. ( Amsterdam Olympics ) He won Pommel Horse 20 years later. He won four medals in 1932 Los Anglese, one in Berlin 1936, two Golds in London 1948 and one Bronze in Helsinki, 1952.
There will never again be a gymnast who counts over 24 years among the best in the world, since now the requirements are so high; 10 elements to choose from A – G skills on each event.
I have not heard much about him since, he must be 101 years now. Lets wish for him that he continues that friendly “ fight “ against age.
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