After the Glory: Where Past Track Champions Are Today
From Jesse Owens and Jim Thorpe to Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Carl Lewis, there is a rich history of track and field champions. Many former champions have gone into coaching, public speaking, politics, and a variety of other endeavors. Here is where a few notable track superstars are today.
Carl Lewis
Carl Lewis is undoubtedly one of the most dominant athletes of all time in any sport. He won an astounding 65 consecutive long jump competitions, four gold medals in the 1984 Olympics, eight world championships, and even set a world record in the 100-meter. He is one of the most identifiable names to this day, and he dominated his era in unparalleled fashion. After retiring, Lewis appeared in movies and TV shows and even ran for state senate. He is currently a spokesperson and promoter of the Hershey’s Track & Field Games, the largest youth activity program in the U.S.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee
Jackie Joyner-Kersee won the gold medal in 1988 and 1992 in the Olympic heptathlon competition. She holds the world record of 7,291 points in the heptathlon as well. In 1988, she established the Jackie-Joyner Kersee foundation to provide charity for the East St. Louis area. She remains active in humanitarian and philanthropic causes including mentoring young people and their families in her hometown of East St. Louis, IL. She is also very active in public speaking.
Lee Evans
Lee Evans broke long-standing world records in the 400 and 4x100 meter relay in the 1968 Olympics. Evans would later become an excellent ambassador for the sport. He has traveled the world to coach and lead various athletic programs. In January, 2012, Lee underwent surgery to remove a benign brain tumor. He is currently recovering.
Madeline Manning-Mims
Madeline Manning-Mims set three world indoor records in the 800-meter event. She is a ten-time winner in indoor and outdoor championships, but more fascinating is what she did after her track and field days. She has recorded seven albums and is currently a gospel singer, a minister, and a motivational speaker.
Bruce Jenner
Bruce Jenner won the gold medal for decathlon at the Montreal 1976 Olympics, which instantly vaulted him to national hero status. He was named the Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year in 1976. Following his athletic success, Bruce became a television celebrity. He guest starred in several made-for-TV movies and series. Since 2007, he has starred as the stepfather on the reality TV show Keeping Up with the Kardashians.
M-F Athletic is dedicated to supporting current and future track and field champions by providing them access to camps and clinics, training & coaching information, and a great selection of track and field equipment. Call us at (888) 556-7464 to learn how we can help the athletes in your program excel in the sport of track and field.
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