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
My 5 Biggest Upsets In Boxing History
In this segment Ladies and Gentlemen, I am going to discuss upsets throughout Boxing
Miracle on 33rd Street: Remembering the 1975 Baltimore Colts
The 1974 Baltimore Colts were a typical losing team. They suffered from poor coaching,
Why Pat Harder Belongs In The Pro Football Hall of Fame
When an incredible football player is consistently overlooked for inclusion in the Pro Football
A Short History of the Dayton Triangles
The Dayton Triangles were an original NFL team when the league was founded as
Jerry Quarry: He Had All The Tools to Become a Champion
Many boxing fans, including myself, believe Quarry had the tools to become a champion.
The 10 Greatest Heavyweight Boxers of All-Time
Throughout the history of the sport, and athletics, the Heavyweight Champion of The World
NFL Travel in the 1940s: My Back Hurts Thinking About It!
Imagine spending three or four days sandwiched between your burly teammates on a cross-country
Mike Utley: Former Detroit Lions Player Fights to Find a Cure For Paralysis!
This week I talk with former Detroit Lions player, Mike Utley. Mike suffered a