Yuriy Lituyev, Russian hurdler and commander (d. 2000)

Yuriy Nikolaevich Lituyev, whose name in Russian is Юрий Николаевич Литуев, was a highly accomplished Soviet athlete, celebrated primarily for his exceptional talent in the 400-meter hurdles. Born on April 11, 1925, his life journey, marked by both military service and remarkable athletic achievements, concluded on March 2, 2000. Lituyev's career represents a significant chapter in the history of Soviet sports, epitomizing the era's dedication to athletic excellence on the international stage.

Before dedicating himself fully to athletics, Lituyev experienced the profound realities of wartime. He actively participated in the Second World War, a period known in the Soviet Union as the Great Patriotic War, serving with distinction as a battery commander. This demanding experience undoubtedly forged a formidable sense of discipline and resilience that would later prove invaluable in his competitive sports career.

A Flourishing Athletic Career

Lituyev's path to becoming a world-class hurdler began in Leningrad, a city renowned for its rich cultural and sporting heritage. His training later took him to Moscow, where he joined the prestigious Armed Forces sports society. This institution was a cornerstone of the Soviet Union's highly organized state-sponsored athletic system, which systematically identified, developed, and supported talent, often integrating sports with military or public service to cultivate elite performers ready for both national and international competitions.

Olympic Silver and World Record Breakthrough

A pivotal moment in Yuriy Lituyev's career came with his participation in the 1952 Summer Olympics, held in Helsinki, Finland. This particular Games marked the Soviet Union's debut in the post-World War II Summer Olympics, making Lituyev's performance all the more significant. Representing the USSR, he competed in the challenging 400-meter hurdles event, where his immense skill and unwavering determination earned him a well-deserved silver medal. This achievement not only brought him personal glory but also contributed to the emerging prominence of Soviet athletes on the global sports scene.

Lituyev's pursuit of excellence did not stop at the Olympics. In 1953, just a year after his Helsinki triumph, he cemented his legacy by breaking the world record in the 400-meter hurdles. On August 20, 1953, in Budapest, he clocked an impressive time of 50.4 seconds, an extraordinary feat that showcased his exceptional athletic prowess and the advancements in training techniques of his era. Beyond his signature event, Lituyev also demonstrated his versatility by competing in the men's 400 meters (flat) event at the 1952 Olympics, further highlighting his comprehensive athletic abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Yuriy Lituyev's primary athletic event?

Yuriy Lituyev primarily competed in the 400-meter hurdles, an event in which he achieved an Olympic silver medal and broke the world record.

Did Yuriy Lituyev serve in the military?

Yes, he served as a battery commander in the Second World War, also known as the Great Patriotic War in the Soviet Union.

What was his significant achievement at the 1952 Summer Olympics?

At the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, Yuriy Lituyev won the silver medal in the 400-meter hurdles, representing the USSR.

When did Yuriy Lituyev break the world record?

He broke the world record in the 400-meter hurdles in 1953, specifically on August 20th in Budapest, with a time of 50.4 seconds.

Where did Yuriy Lituyev train?

He initially trained in Leningrad and later continued his training in Moscow at the Armed Forces sports society.