There are many Olympic moments of historic significance, but there are some that stand out. These are Nadia Comaneci’s longest jumps, the Bob Beamon javelin throw records, and Greg Louganis’ concussion from diving. Read on to discover the most historic moments in the Olympics. We will also be discussing the history of diving as well as the relationship between politics and sport.
Nadia Comaneci’s record-breaking long leap
Nadia Comaneci, who broke the long jump world record at the 2012 Summer Olympics, was the first woman to break the record. Comaneci, who was born in Onesti (Romania) Bela and Marta Onesti founded the Karolyi Gymnastics School in Onesti. The name Nadia is a diminutive form of Nadezhda, which means "hope." Adrian is Comaneci’s brother.
Olympic Games are timed events. The time limit for each event is twenty-three seconds. Comaneci is almost one-half second faster than any previous world record in the long jump. Her performance is a source of inspiration for all gymnasts. Olympics are one the most prestigious events. Nadia Comaneci's long jump record is a great example of her talent and brilliance.
Bob Beamon's javelin throw record
Bob Beamon's incredible throw of the javelin at the London Olympics remains a topic of conversation today. Sports Illustrated magazine named this feat one of the five most significant sporting moments. But, the veteran athlete has many interests beyond track and field. He is now well into 70s. These include starting a business and helping young people reach their goals. He has been an ambassador to the Special Olympics.
The women's javelin is different from the men's original design. It was made for women and has seen significant improvements to make it more competitive. In the late 1980s, consecutive world records were broken at close to 80 meters. Beamon has held the world record for the longest time by a woman on the Olympic stage. In 1988, however, three of the best women's long jumpers were in Olympic action, the most famous being YelenaIsinbayeva.
Greg Louganis' concussion in diving
Greg Louganis (world's best diver) suffered a concussion during his dive at the London Olympics. The incident occurred while Louganis was preparing to dive on a board. He fell during a two-and-a half reverse pike. Louganis received stitches at the hospital but was able return to compete and win his gold medal. After suffering a concussion, he became the first man who defended the Olympic springboard diving title. Louganis revealed to Barbara Walters in 1995 that he was suffering from AIDS, and that he had contracted the disease during the 1988 Games. Louganis did not stop competing, however, as he tested negative for HIV.
Louganis, a champion diver for over twenty years has won gold medals at the two Summer Olympics. Louganis is only diver to have ever won multiple Gold Medals. His best results were at the 1988 and 1984 Summer Olympics. He has won many gold medals at other competitions like the 1979 Pan American Games as well as the 1983 Summer Universiade. Louganis also won numerous other events in addition to the Olympic gold medals. In 1988, ABC named Louganis the "Athlete of the Years".