Larry Myricks

Olympic rings

Larry Myricks (born March 10, 1956, in Clinton, Mississippi) is a former American track and field athlete who specialized in the long jump. Over his career, Myricks made a significant impact on the sport, competing in four Olympic Games and securing numerous titles and medals at major international competitions.

Career

Larry Myricks's athletic career is marked by both its longevity and success. He first came into prominence while attending Mississippi College, where he showcased his talent in the long jump. Myricks's Olympic aspirations were first thwarted in 1980 when he qualified for the U.S. Olympic team but was unable to compete due to the U.S. boycott of the Moscow Olympics. Despite this setback, Myricks demonstrated resilience and determination, continuing to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

Throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s, Myricks was a dominant force in the long jump. He won bronze medals at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul and at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, showcasing his ability to perform on the world's biggest stage. In addition to his Olympic success, Myricks also excelled at the World Championships in Athletics, securing medals in 1987, 1991, and 1993. His rivalry with fellow American long jumper Carl Lewis added a compelling narrative to the sport during this period.

Myricks's career is also notable for its longevity. He continued to compete at a high level into his late 30s, a rare feat in the physically demanding discipline of the long jump. His ability to maintain peak physical condition and compete against much younger athletes is a testament to his dedication and love for the sport.

Legacy

Larry Myricks's impact on track and field extends beyond his medal count. He is respected for his sportsmanship, his advocacy for athletes' rights, and his contributions to the development of the sport. Myricks has been involved in various capacities within the track and field community, including coaching and mentoring young athletes.

His career serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the importance of resilience, hard work, and passion. Myricks's achievements have earned him a place in the USA Track & Field Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest long jumpers in American history.

See Also

• List of Olympic medalists in athletics (men)
• World Championships in Athletics
• USA Track & Field