Al Oerter

Profession: Discus Thrower

Nationality:

Biography: Al Oerter was an American athlete known for being the first to win gold medals in the same individual event in four consecutive Olympics: the 1956 Melbourne Games, the 1960 Rome Games, the 1964 Tokyo Games, and the 1968 Mexico City Games. Beyond his athletic prowess, Oerter later became an artist and a founder of the Art of the Olympians organization.

Oerter was introduced to discus at the age of 15 and developed his skills to earn a scholarship to the University of Kansas. He won the NCAA discus championships in 1957 and 1958. While at the university, he was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity.

The Olympic Games played a central role in Oerter's athletic career. He won his first Olympic gold medal in 1956. He continued to dominate the event, winning consecutive gold medals in 1960, 1964, and 1968. His Olympic journey was marked by interactions and competition with other major athletes such as Rink Babka and Jay Silvester.

Oerter faced several challenges throughout his career, including a near-fatal car accident in 1957 and injuries such as a severe neck injury and torn rib cartilage, particularly before the 1964 Olympics. His determination was underscored by his quote: "These are the Olympics. You die for them."

After retiring post the 1968 Olympics, Oerter briefly experimented with anabolic steroids in 1976, ultimately rejecting their use and advocating for clean sports. He also attempted a comeback for the 1980 Olympics and achieved a personal best throw at age 43 due to his work with Dr. Gideon Ariel.

Following his athletic career, Oerter turned to abstract painting. He created the "Impact" series and founded the Art of the Olympians organization in 2006. The organization gained recognition by the USOC and earned 501(c)(3) status.

Oerter's later life was marked by health issues, including high blood pressure. Despite a clinical death experience in 2003 and rejecting a heart transplant, Oerter continued his contributions to art and culture. He was inducted into the IAAF Hall of Fame and ultimately passed away in October of 2007.

Born: September 19, 1936
Birthplace: Astoria, New York, USA

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rat
Star Sign: Virgo

Died: October 1, 2007 (aged 71)
Cause of Death: Heart failure aged 71