Born in Iceland, Peter began running track at a young age. He excelled in this sport and in his late teens was on the Icelandic National Team for the decathlon. He held several national records. While competing in Europe, he met a runner from the United States who was currently attending and competing for USC. After talking, the USC track athlete asked him if he would ever consider coming to the United States to run for USC. Peter said he would love to and after talking to the coach, Peter began attending USC on a full scholarship. He came to the United States with his 3 children and had two more sons, Brian and Stephen. Both are currently licensed physicians in Southern California and are very proud of their father.
An alumnus of the University of Southern California
Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics in the 110-Meter Hurdles (representing Iceland)
In addition to co-starting in the original Journey to the Center of the Earth, he is listed in the opening credits as Technical Advisor.