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
Super Bowl XLII (New England Patriots vs. New York Giants): An Ultimate Recount of the Game
Today we have Super Bowl XLII, which was held on February 3, 2008, at
Sports History On This Day: September 5
September 5, 1906 – Many claim it was the first legal forward pass in American
Sports History On This Day: September 4
September 4, 1920 – History takes us to the racetrack of thoroughbreds. One of the
Sports History On This Day: September 3
September 3, 1908 – Prize fighter Tommy Burns was the world champion in the heavyweight
Sports History On This Day: September 2
September 2, 1946 – Talk about one of the greatest sports competitors of all time
Sports History On This Day: September 1
September 1, 1999 – It became the first in modern professional sports history. Former NHL
Sports History On This Day: August 31
August 31, 1909 – A. J. Reach Co. patented the cork-centered baseball. Previously the balls
Sports History On This Day: August 30
August 30, 1904 – Perhaps the main staple of the Olympics from ancient Greece carried