Dick Fosbury

Born in 1947 in Portland, Oregon, Dick Fosbury developed a passion for the high jump in his teens. He pioneered a revolutionary technique called the "Fosbury Flop," which involved clearing the bar with his back to the ground first. This technique enabled him to win the gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, clearing 2.24 meters. His innovation permanently transformed the high jump, making him a key figure in the sport.