Career
In 1968 he suffered from the high altitude conditions of Mexico and collapsed at the 44th kilometre, which was his only defeat in 86 races between 1967 and 1970. In July 1972 he set a world record in the 20 km, but finished only sixth at the 1972 Olympics. He also competed in the 20 km walk in the 1976 Olympics, before retiring the following year.