12 Facts About Guor Marial

Guor Marial was one of four athletes competing in the 2012 Summer Olympics under the Olympic flag rather than that of an individual country.

Guor Marial was granted refugee status by the United States when he was 16.

Guor Marial began participating in track and field while attending high school in Concord, New Hampshire, after being encouraged by his gym teacher.

Guor Marial competed in college at Iowa State, where he was an All-American athlete.

Guor Marial's case was called "unique" by the IOC, as prior to the games, South Sudan had yet to form a National Olympic Committee and seek full recognition by the International Olympic Committee, which would have allowed them to send a team and compete under the flag of South Sudan.

Guor Marial holds permanent resident status in the United States, but not citizenship.

Guor Marial finished 47th in the marathon, with a time of 2:19:32.

Guor Marial competed at the 2012 Olympics using his adopted name of Marial, which was the surname of his uncle.

Guor Marial was selected for the 2016 Olympic Games in the marathon.

Guor Marial finished with a season-best of 2:22:45, coming 81st overall.

Guor Marial was selected for the United States Air Force World Class Athlete Program.

Guor Marial is currently a dental technician with the 21st Dental Squadron.