John Thomas (athlete) facts for kids
John Thomas with brother at the 1960 Olympics
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Quick facts for kids Personal information |
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| Born | March 3, 1941 Boston, Massachusetts, US |
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| Died | January 15, 2013 (aged 71) Brockton, Massachusetts, US |
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| Height | 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) | |||||||||||||
| Weight | 88 kg (194 lb) | |||||||||||||
| Sport | ||||||||||||||
| Sport | High jump | |||||||||||||
| Club | Boston Athletic Association | |||||||||||||
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Medal record
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John Curtis Thomas (born March 3, 1941 – died January 15, 2013) was an amazing American track and field athlete. He was best known for his incredible skills in the high jump. John Thomas set several world records during his career.
He used a special way of jumping called the straddle technique. This technique helped him become one of the best high jumpers of his time. Even though he was a favorite, he didn't win an Olympic gold medal. However, he did earn bronze and silver medals at the Olympic Games.
Contents
John Thomas: A High Jump Star
John Thomas became famous very quickly in the world of track and field. He was a natural talent in the high jump.
Early Achievements
When he was just 17, John Thomas made history. He was a freshman at Boston University at the time. He became the first person ever to jump over 7 feet (2.13 meters) indoors. This was a huge achievement! He then broke the indoor world record again, jumping 7 feet 1½ inches (2.17 meters).
He also broke the outdoor world record three times. His best jump was an amazing 7 feet 3¾ inches (2.22 meters). He set this record in 1960 when he was only 20 years old.
His Jumping Style
John Thomas used the "straddle technique" for his jumps. This meant he would plant his left foot to push off the ground. Then, he would kick his right leg high over the bar first. This unique style helped him clear incredible heights.
Olympic Challenges
John Thomas was expected to win gold medals at the Olympic Games. He competed in both the 1960 and 1964 Olympics.
1960 Rome Olympics
At the 1960 Rome Olympics, John Thomas was a top favorite. However, he ended up winning the bronze medal. The gold medal went to Robert Shavlakadze from Russia. Valeriy Brumel, also from Russia, won the silver. That day, September 1, 1960, was tough for many American favorites. It became known as 'Black Thursday' because several expected winners didn't get gold.
1964 Tokyo Olympics
In 1964, John Thomas competed again in Tokyo. He faced Valeriy Brumel once more. Both jumpers cleared the same top height. But Brumel was declared the winner because he had fewer misses at lower heights. So, John Thomas won the silver medal this time. Another American athlete, John Rambo, won the bronze medal.
Hall of Fame
Even without an Olympic gold, John Thomas's impact on high jumping was huge. He is a member of the USATF Hall of Fame. This honor celebrates his amazing career and contributions to track and field.
John Thomas's Life Story
John Thomas was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He grew up nearby in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Family and Education
His father, Curtis, worked as a bus driver. His mother, Ida, worked in the kitchen at Harvard University. John Thomas was also an Eagle Scout when he was young. This is the highest rank in the Boy Scouts.
He studied at Boston University and graduated in 1963. He earned a bachelor's degree in physical and psychological rehabilitation.
After Competition
John Thomas stopped competing in sports when he was 27 years old. After that, he became a businessman. He also stayed involved in sports by coaching. He worked as an assistant coach at Boston University. Later, he became the athletic director at Roxbury Community College.
John Thomas passed away at the age of 71. He died while having surgery in a hospital in Brockton, Massachusetts.
Images for kids
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