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What is the most impressive jump in Olympic history?

Sharman Wankling

The most impressive jump in Olympic history is a difficult question to answer definitively, as there have been countless standout performances over the years that have left audiences in awe. However, I firmly believe that the answer lies in the performances of the legendary high jumper Dick Fosbury at the 1968 Mexico City games.

Before Fosbury, high jumpers used a traditional method called the "Western Roll." This involved a curved running approach, followed by a scissor kick over the bar with one leg leading and the other leg following. However, Fosbury revolutionized the sport by introducing a new technique that became known as the "Fosbury Flop." This involved a sprint towards the bar, a sideways turn in mid-air, and then a back-first clearance over the bar, using a technique that Fosbury called "the method."

Fosbury's technique was an instant success, as he cleared the bar at a height of 7 feet 4.25 inches to win the gold medal and set a new Olympic record. His performance was so impressive that it inspired other high jumpers to adopt his technique, and soon the "Fosbury Flop" became the dominant technique in the sport.

What makes Fosbury's performance so impressive is not just the technical innovation, but also the impact that it had on the sport of high jump. His unconventional approach not only won him the gold medal, but it also changed the way that high jumpers approached the event. The Fosbury Flop opened new possibilities for height and style, and allowed jumpers to soar to new heights that had never been seen before.

Beyond making an impact on the sport, Fosbury's performance also had a social impact. Fosbury was a revolutionary figure who challenged the norms of the time, and his success sparked a cultural shift that encouraged athletes to embrace new and untested ideas.

In conclusion, while it is difficult to name the most impressive jump in Olympic history, I believe that Dick Fosbury's performance at the 1968 Mexico City games is a standout example. His innovative technique not only won him the gold medal, but it also changed the sport of high jump forever. Beyond that, his unconventional approach challenged the norms of the time and helped athletes embrace new ideas and possibilities. For those reasons, Fosbury's jump is truly one for the history books.