Inexperienced at this distance, and underestimating the dehydrating effect of the severe and unusual heat and humidity, he opened up a lead of over half a minute at the course midpoint.

As he faded, Gailly was reeled in by Delfo Cabrera (ARG) and Tom Richards (GBR).

Entering the stadium in the lead but stumbling with exhaustion, the crowd roaring encouragement, he was passed by Cabrera during the final lap.

Gailly contested the 1950 European Championship marathon, but his subsequent career was cut short by an injury sustained during service in the Korean War.

[7] Both Etienne and his brother Pierre served during the Korean War as part of the Belgian United Nations Command.