Competitor bib number worn by Alton Roy Welton during the 1908 Boston Marathon on April 20, 1908, measuring 7.5 x 5.75, and bearing his prominent "58" marathon number. In very good condition, with moderate wear from use. Accompanied by two modern photos of Welton, and a letter of provenance affirming that Welton wore the bib at the 1908 Boston Marathon. Originates from Welton's personal scrapbooks. Despite leading the race through 16 miles, breaking records at every checkpoint, Welton's pace slowed considerably upon 'hitting the wall,' and he finished in ninth place at the 12th Boston Marathon. His time, however, qualified him to run in the London 1908 Summer Olympics just three months later. Among a field of 75 runners, Welton finished in fourth place behind fellow Americans Joseph Forshaw (bronze) and Johnny Hayes (gold), the latter finishing second at the 1908 Boston Marathon.
