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Rey EwryAmerican track and field athlete
Date of Birth: 14.10.1873
Country:  USA |
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Biography of Ray Ewry
Ray Ewry was an American athlete, an eight-time Olympic champion and one of the most decorated athletes in Olympic history. He was born on October 14, 1873, in Lafayette, Indiana. As a child, he contracted polio and had to use a wheelchair for a period of time. However, with exercise, he was able to recover and started practicing jumping to strengthen his legs.
Early Life and Education
In 1890, Ewry enrolled at Purdue University, where he completed his degree in hydraulic engineering in 1896. During his time at the university, he played American football and participated in track and field events, leading the university team. He became a 15-time US champion in standing jumps from 1898 to 1910 until the event was discontinued.
Olympic Career
Ewry competed in four Summer Olympics from 1900 to 1908, including the unofficial 1906 Games. He won every event he participated in, setting two world records and one Olympic record, ultimately earning ten gold medals. However, two of his medals were obtained in the unofficial Games, so he is officially recognized as an eight-time champion. Ewry had hoped to compete in the 1912 Games, even at the age of 39, but was not allowed to participate.
Legacy and Achievements
Ewry's record in the standing long jump remained unbeaten until 1938 when they stopped keeping records for the event. He passed away on September 29, 1937. In 1974, he was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame, and in 1983, he was also inducted into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame.
