Jean-Louis LaMothe represented Haiti in athletics at multiple Olympic Games, participating in the 5000 meters in 1976 and the marathon in 1984, 1988, and 1992. Despite often finishing last, his perseverance in the face of immense challenges tells a remarkable story.
At the 1976 Montreal Games, LaMothe finished last in the 5000 meters. In the 1984 Los Angeles marathon, he again placed last, but outlasted 29 runners who failed to finish the grueling race. He completed the course in 2:52:18 despite being informed of his participation only two weeks before the Games and running with borrowed equipment.
LaMothe’s Olympic journey unfolded during the Duvalier dictatorship, under which Haiti sent underprepared athletes, often chosen from the dictator’s personal circle, to the Games. These athletes, including LaMothe, gained notoriety for setting record worst times—many of which remain unbroken.
Some notable performances from this era include:
Anilus Joseph, who led the 1972 10,000 meters for two laps but withdrew with a mile to go.
Wilnor Joseph, who ran a 2:15.26 in the 800 meters at the 1976 Olympics.
Olmeus Charles, who completed the 1976 10,000 meters in over 42 minutes.
LaMothe later revealed the immense pressure he faced under the Duvalier regime. He claimed he feared for his life if he failed to complete the 1984 marathon, receiving only $250 for his participation.
Despite these hardships, LaMothe achieved his personal best in the 1988 Seoul Games, finishing 20th in the marathon with a time of 2:16:15. At 38 years old, he competed in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, becoming Haiti’s oldest Olympian.
Jean-Louis LaMothe’s story is one of resilience and determination, reflecting both the challenges and spirit of Haitian athletes during a turbulent era.
