Quick Facts

Spouse: Minnie Ruth Soloman
Education: Ohio State University
Sports: Track and field
Event(s): Spring and long jump
Metal Records:
- Gold: Olympic Games Berlin 1936 - 100m
- Gold: Olympic Games Berlin 1936 - 200m
- Gold: Olympic Games Berlin 1936 - 4x100m relay
- Gold: Olympic Games Berlin 1936 - long jump

Biographic Information

Jesse Owens was a track and field, four-time Olympic gold medalist whose legendary achievements continue to inspire. Owens' journey to greatness began in high school, where he set multiple records, signaling the start of an extraordinary athletic career.

His most iconic moment came at the Olympic Games Berlin 1936, where he won four gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump and 4×100-meter relay. Owens' feats in Berlin earned him international acclaim and solidified his status as one of the greatest athletes in track and field history.

Before his Olympic triumph, Owens had already made history at the 1935 Big Ten track meet in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In just 45 minutes, he set three world records and tied in another.

After the Olympics, Owens dedicated much of his time to helping underprivileged youth, using his platform to inspire and mentor the next generation. He also became a prominent inspirational speaker. Owens worked as a public relations representative and consultant, leveraging his fame and influence to make a positive impact on society.

Owens' legacy has been honored in various ways, with numerous stadiums and parks named after him.

Olympic History

Jesse Owens' success story at the Olympic Games Berlin 1936 (amid Nazi Germany) is legendary. His journey to the games was marked by both controversy and courage. Though initially dissuaded from participating, Owens and his fellow athletes competed after the American Olympic Committee labeled them "un-American agitators" for considering withdrawal.

Owens' performance at the 1936 Olympics was nothing short of spectacular. On Aug 3, he won the 100 meters dash in 10.3 seconds. He also clinched gold in the long jump with a leap of 8.06 meters. On Aug. 5, he again secured gold in the 200-meter sprint with a time of 20.7 seconds. Owens won his fourth and final gold medal on Aug. 9 in the 4×100-meter relay, setting a world record of 39.8 seconds. His record of four gold medals in a single Olympic Games stood unmatched until 1984.

Personal Life

Jesse Owens married Ruth Solomon in 1935, with whom he had three daughters: Gloria, Marlene and Beverly.

In addition to his role as a dedicated husband and father, Owens' life inspired the biographical drama film "Race," released in 2016. The movie portrays Owens' journey to the Olympic Games Berlin 1936, highlighting his struggles against racism and his groundbreaking achievements on the world stage.

Jesse Owens' personal life and legacy continue to resonate, not only for his athletic achievements but also for his courage in confronting societal barriers and advocating for equality. His story remains a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring impact of sports on shaping cultural narratives.

Early Life

Jesse Owens was born on Sept. 12, 1913, in Oakville, Alabama, to Henry and Emma Owens. He was the youngest of ten children in a modest farming family. Owens' given name was originally James Cleveland Owens, but a teacher misunderstood his Southern accent when he said "J.C.", thinking he said "Jesse", and the name stuck.

In high school, Owens continued to excel in track and field at Cleveland's East Technical High School. He set numerous records, including tying the world record for the 100-yard dash and breaking records in the long jump and 220-yard dash. Owens' outstanding performances culminated in his success at the National High School Championship, where he set a new high school record in the 100-yard dash and the long jump, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in American athletics.

Early Career

After enrolling at Ohio State University, Jesse Owens began his collegiate career with remarkable promise. Despite facing racial discrimination, Owens quickly made his mark in track and field.

During his collegiate years, he achieved an astonishing eight NCAA championships, setting numerous records along the way. His dominance in events like the sprints, long jump and relays solidified his reputation as one of the most outstanding athletes in college sports history.

However, Owens' journey as an African-American athlete was not without its challenges. He confronted racial prejudice both on and off the track. Despite these obstacles, Owens persevered.

Olympic Experience

1-time Olympian; 4-time Olympic medalist (4 gold)
- Olympic Games Berlin 1936, gold (100m - Men, 200m - Men, 4 x 100m Relay - Men, Long Jump - Men)

Athlete Bio

Age

Hometown

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Event Schedule

2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Track & Field

2024 Olympic Games - Track & Field

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