Struggles of the 1912 Decathletes

This chapter explores the intense struggles faced by decathletes during the 1912 Olympics, contrasting the physical demands of each event and the emotional toll on competitors like Avery Brundage and Jim Thorpe. It highlights Brundage's internal conflict surrounding amateurism, leading to his feelings of shame when comparing himself to Thorpe's remarkable achievements. Ultimately, the narrative critiques the interpretation of these athletes in modern media, revealing deeper moral questions about the essence of the Olympic spirit amidst political pressures.