Otis Johnson (athlete) facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Jet |
| Nationality | United States of America |
| Born | February 3, 1932 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Sport | |
| Country |  United States |
| Sport | Track and field Football |
| Event(s) | 60 yard dash Relay Running back |
| Team | Morgan State College (1951–1955) United States Army (1956–1960) |
Otis "Jet" Johnson was an amazing American athlete. He was born on February 3, 1932. Otis was known for his incredible speed in sprint races. These are short, fast running events.
He was a very important part of the Morgan State relay teams. A relay race is where a team of runners passes a baton. Otis helped his team win many races. He was even a national champion for three years in a row. He also won the famous Penn Relays multiple times. Later in his life, Otis Johnson served in the U.S. Army.
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Otis Johnson's Early Athletic Career
Otis Johnson was a star athlete at Morgan State College. He competed in track and field from 1951 to 1955. His coach, Edward P. Hurt, helped him become very fast. Otis was especially good at sprint events. He ran races like the 60-yard dash.
Success in Relay Races
Otis was a key member of Morgan State's relay teams. These teams were famous for their speed. From 1953 to 1955, Otis Johnson was a national outdoor champion. This means he was the best in the country. He also won the Penn Relays three times. The Penn Relays is one of the oldest and biggest track and field events in the United States.
The Flying Four Relay Team
Otis Johnson was part of a legendary team called The Flying Four. This was an American collegiate 4 × 400 metres relay team. A 4x400 metres relay involves four runners each running 400 meters. The team was known for its incredible speed and teamwork. They set many records during their time.
Service in the U.S. Army
After his successful college career, Otis Johnson joined the United States Army. He served in the Army from 1956 to 1960. Many athletes serve in the military after their sports careers. This shows his dedication to his country.
