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Walter Davis (triple jumper) facts for kids

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Walter Davis
Walter Davis Osaka07 D3A Triple Jump VC.jpg
Walter Davis at the 2007 World Championships medal ceremony
Medal record
Men's athletics
Representing the  United States
World Championships
Gold 2005 Helsinki Triple jump
Bronze 2007 Osaka Triple jump
World Indoor Championships
Gold 2006 Moscow Triple jump
Silver 2003 Birmingham Triple jump

Walter L. Davis, born on July 2, 1979, is an amazing American athlete. He is best known for his incredible skills in the triple jump. Sometimes, he also competes in the long jump. Walter was born in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Walter Davis has won many important competitions. He earned gold medals at the 2005 World Outdoor Championships and the 2006 World Indoor Championships. These wins show he was one of the best jumpers in the world.

An Unforgettable Jump

One of Walter's most famous moments happened at the 2004 Olympic Trials. During the triple jump final, he made an extraordinary jump. As he landed, his foot touched the sand first. This was unusual because most jumpers land on their bottom.

Because of the rules, the jump was measured from where his foot first touched. This officially made the jump 17.63 meters. However, videos showed that his body landed much further. Experts believe the actual distance to where his body landed was at least 18 meters! This jump showed his amazing power and skill.

College and Competition

Walter Davis was a key member of the Louisiana State University track and field team. He trained and competed with other talented athletes there. His time at LSU helped him become the champion he is today.

Between 2012 and 2013, Walter missed some required tests. Because of this, he was not allowed to compete in the sport for one year. After this break, he returned to competition.

Major Wins and Achievements

Walter Davis has achieved many great things in his career. Here are some of his top results:

  • 2006 IAAF World Indoor Championships - Gold medal
  • 2005 World Championships in Athletics - Gold medal
  • 2004 Summer Olympics - 11th place
  • 2003 IAAF World Indoor Championships - Silver medal
  • 2003 World Championships in Athletics - Seventh place (in the long jump)
  • 2001 World Championships in Athletics - Fifth place
  • 1st IAAF World Athletics Final - Second place
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