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
Sports History On This Day: August 7
August 7, 1936 – The game of Basketball makes its Olympic debut at the 1936 Olympics
Hell in a Sell: How I Remember Owen Hart’s Death and Other Real Events in Wrestling History
When WWE television commentator Jim Ross told the millions of fans watching the OVER
Sports History On This Day: August 6
August 6, 1956 – There used to be another major television network that had
Sports History On This Day: August 5
August 5, 1921 – It was a huge moment in sports broadcasting history! KDKA of Pittsburgh
Sports History On This Day: August 4
August 4, 1984 – There are fast athletes then there are athletes that are fast!
Sports History On This Day: August 3
August 3, 1852 – It was the first American intercollegiate sporting event that had ever
1971 Dallas Cowboys: How I Remember Their First Super Bowl Winning Season
It was a memorable season for this 9-year-old Cowboys fan. After losing the Super
Super Bowl XL (Steelers vs. Seahawks): An Ultimate Recount of the Game
Today we have Super Bowl XL, which was held on February 5, 2006, at