Delano Meriwether

Delano Meriwether (born November 19, 1945) is a retired American physician and athlete. He is best known for his achievements in track and field, particularly in sprinting, where he was the first medical doctor to win a national title in the 100-yard dash.

Early life and education

Meriwether was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended Morgan State University for his undergraduate studies, where he earned a degree in biology. He then went on to attend the Duke University School of Medicine, where he earned his medical degree.

Medical career

After graduating from Duke, Meriwether worked as a hematologist at the National Institutes of Health. He later served as a public health doctor in South Africa during the Apartheid era, providing medical care to underserved communities.

Athletic career

Meriwether began his athletic career while studying at Duke. He was a self-coached athlete and trained in his spare time. In 1971, he won the national title in the 100-yard dash, becoming the first medical doctor to achieve this feat. He also competed in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, representing the United States in the 100-meter dash.

Personal life

Meriwether is married to Monica Meriwether, a former Miss World contestant. They have two children together.

Legacy

Meriwether's unique combination of athletic and academic achievements has made him a role model for many aspiring athletes and doctors. His work in South Africa has also been recognized for its contribution to public health in the region.