Franciscus Josephus KUNEN

Having started running at age 20, Frans Künen became one of the top Dutch distance runners on track, field and road. Working as a sports instructor at the Dutch Air Force, he recorded his first national record in 1956, in the 10,000 m on the track. That same year, he claimed the first of six national titles in the cross country (four long distance, two short distance). Künen also became national champion in the 10,000 m (1959, 1961) and marathon (1960). At that latter occasion, he ran his first marathon and bettered the Dutch national record. He also qualified for the Olympics in Rome later that year, where he placed 36th. Internationally, Künen also competed in various country matches, as well as the International Military Championships, winning the 5,000 m at the 1956 edition. He also competed twice in the International Cross Counry Championships (forerunner of the World Championships) his best mark being 21st (1957).

Personal Best: Mar – 2-26:08 (1960).