American sprinter and coach who won Olympic gold and set multiple world records in the 100-yard dash, later training other notable athletes.
Charles Greene, an American track and field sprinter, etched his name in the annals of history with his lightning-fast speed, earning him the coveted gold medal in the 4 x 100 meters relay at the 1968 Summer Olympics. Greene's exceptional talent and remarkable achievements on the track catapulted him to international stardom, cementing his status as one of the greatest sprinters of his era.
Born on March 21, 1945, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Greene demonstrated a natural aptitude for sprinting from a young age. During his high school years at O'Dea High School in Seattle, he won consecutive titles in the 100-yard dash (1962-1963) and the 220-yard dash (1963). This early success paved the way for his dominance on the collegiate circuit.
Greene's collegiate career at the University of Nebraska was marked by unparalleled success. He won three consecutive National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championships in the 100-yard dash (1965-1967) and tied the world record with a blistering time of 9.1 seconds. Additionally, he claimed the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) championships in the 100-yard dash (1966) and the 100-meter dash (1968).
The 1968 AAU Championships, held at Hughes Stadium in Sacramento, California, will forever be etched in the memories of track and field enthusiasts as the "Night of Speed." On June 20, 1968, Greene, along with Jim Hines and Ronnie Ray Smith, equaled the 100-meter world record, achieving a remarkable time of 9.9 seconds. This extraordinary display of speed and power set the stage for Greene's Olympic debut.
At the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, Greene, despite struggling with a hamstring injury, led off the American 4 x 100 meters relay team to a gold medal and a new world record of 38.24 seconds. Although he finished third in the 100-meter dash, his determination and grit in the face of adversity won the hearts of fans worldwide.
Following his athletic career, Greene embarked on a distinguished career in the United States Army, serving as a sprint coach at West Point and head coach of the All-Army team. Upon retiring with the rank of Major, he became a director for Special Olympics International.
Greene's remarkable achievements, both on and off the track, have left an indelible mark on the world of athletics. His unwavering dedication, unrelenting passion, and unbridled speed have inspired generations of athletes, solidifying his position as one of the greatest sprinters of all time.
"The biggest thrill I got was when I tied the world record. I was on top of the world." - Charles Greene
Greene's remarkable achievements have had a profound impact on modern society, inspiring countless young athletes to pursue their dreams and push the boundaries of human excellence. His legacy continues to motivate and inspire, transcending generations and athletic disciplines.
79 Years Old
American sprinter and coach who won two gold medals at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, setting multiple world records in the 400 meters and 4x400 relay events.
64 Years Old
A dominant force in track and field, winning 9 Olympic gold medals and 10 World Championship medals, setting multiple world records in the 100m and long jump events.
48 Years Old
South Africa's former rugby team captain and hooker, known for leading the Springboks to World Cup victory in 2007 and becoming the first player to captain a team to 50 Test wins.
65 Years Old
An American sprinter who won gold medals in the 100 meters and 4x100 meters relay at the 1983 World Championships, setting multiple world records in the process.
