Jos Hermens

Running career

Hermens is a three-time national champion in the men's 5,000 metres, and collected his first title on 14 July 1973 in The Hague. He was named Dutch Sportsman of the Year in 1975. He was a 10,000 metres finalist at the 1976 Summer Olympics and set the world record for the hour run the same year.

Hermens twice improved the world hour record, on the Papendal track. In September 1975, with Gerard Tebroke as a pacemaker, he ran 20,907 meters. In May 1976, without a pacemaker, he ran an additional 37 meters. This record held until 1991.

Hermens had withdrawn from the 1972 Olympic Games following the Munich massacre. "It's quite simple," he said. "We were invited to a party, and if someone comes to the party and shoots people, how can you stay?"

Hermens finished third behind Dave Bedford in the 10,000 metres event at the 1972 AAA Championships and second behind Brendan Foster in the 5,000 metres at the 1974 AAA Championships.