June 20, 1936 – Faster than fast that was how many described him. Jesse Owens the American sprinter, was a legendary athlete and trailblazer for people of color. On this day over 80 years ago, Mr. Owens set the 100-meter record at 10.2 seconds while representing Ohio State at this NCAA-sanctioned event. The previous record was 10.3 seconds.
Think about that for a moment…100 meters is roughly 109 yards. The record for the 100-meter sprint that stands now is 9.58 seconds by Usain Bolt in 2009. Owens went on to win a total of 4 events at the NCAA championships of 1936.
Besides winning the 100-meter sprint he also claimed the ribbons at the 200-meter sprint, 220-yard low hurdles, and the broad jump too. Quite an athlete…quite a man.
To find more great daily sports history make sure to check out the Sports Jersey Dispatch and Pigskin Dispatch.
More From Sports History Network
How Sports Betting Has Shaped Kansas Sports – A Historical Overview
The world of sports and the realm of video games may seem like disparate
The Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1970s: A Trip Down Memory Lane
With a long history of losing and a 1–13 record in 1969, Steelers fans
Looking Back at Manchester United’s Last Premier League Title
Manchester United has won the English Premier League title or equivalent a record 20
The Dallas Cowboys in the 1970s: A Trip Down Memory Lane
After an embarrassing 54–13 loss to the Vikings in week five and a humiliating
The Future of Sports Betting
Many people still think of betting as something seedy and underground. However, times have
The Miami Dolphins in the 1970s: A Trip Down Memory Lane
With their new Head Coach, Don Shula leading the way, the 1970 Dolphins got
Edward “Butch” O’Hare: Capone, Cardinals, and a Chicago Legacy
This is one of those stories that you certainly can not make up: happiness,
The Oakland Raiders in the 1970s: A Trip Down Memory Lane
The 1970 Oakland Raiders dug themselves a hole by not registering a win until