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: May 13
May 13, 1905 – World heavyweight boxing champion James J. Jeffries retired undefeated after 7 title defenses.
The Legend of Taro Tsujimoto and the 1974 NHL Draft
Drafts have been going on now in professional sports leagues for decades and occasionally,
Sports History On This Day: May 12
May 12, 1979 – Women’s tennis star Chris Evert Lloyd had her amazing run of 125 matches
Sports History On This Day: May 11
May 11, 1893 – Early bicycle enthusiast, Henri Desgrange, established the very first bicycle world record, traveling
Where It All Started: The Brickyard
In this inaugural episode of “Tim Coffeen Talks Indy Car and Racing History,” Tim
1970s New York Yankees World Series Hangover
From 1976 to 1978, the New York Yankees won three American League Pennants and
Sports History On This Day: May 10
May 10, 1967 – We all probably remember Hammerin’ Hank Aaron for his launching balls over the
From NFL Legends to Canadian Coaches
Back in 1920, center, George Trafton of the Decatur Staleys was so despised, that