Otis Davis

thumb|Otis Davis in 1960 Otis Crandall Davis (July 12, 1932 – September 14, 2024) was an American athlete, winner of two gold medals for record-breaking performances in the 400 m and 4 × 400 m relay at the 1960 Summer Olympics. He set a new world record of 44.9 seconds in the 400 m and became the first person to break the 45-second barrier.medals. Quotes As a man of Black and Native American heritage, I am still striving to get the acceptance and rewards that I have earned, With God on my side, I will succeed. Racial prejudice is basically fear and insecurity, I am amazed that I am getting fan mail from people that are encouraged by my motivation to assist them in achieving their goals. I grew up in a religious environment that gave me strength, hope, and endurance in the segregated South. Recreational sports were a very important part of my life. The enlistment in the Air Force helped in my development and maturity, Later, when I attended college, I had to face many challenges because of the color of my skin, but I was determined to succeed. Excelling in athletics gave me that opportunity. Making the Olympic team was like a dream that came true. I knew I had won,They were the only ones that didn't know … those up there in the (press) booth. By the way, I look at (the replay) every time because I know I'm going to win. It was surreal,I thought I had a chance to get a medal, but I never thought I would get two gold medals. For that time, it was unbelievable. No one believed it. Celebrating former world-record holder and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Otis Davis, February 23 2022 I didn't know I looked that good. I'm just glad they thought of me in that way to put me up there. It seems like they all recognize me now. I figured I was going to be able to do something, But naturally, I didn't think it would come close to this. Segregation, it didn't stop me, Because I always believed I could be something. I knew I had won,They were the only ones that didn't know … those up there in the booth. By the way, I look at (the replay) every time because I know I'm going to win. The best thing any of us can have is peace of mind, I've got peace of mind. And I'm getting it more and more. But First There Was Otis, N.D External links Category:Olympic gold medalists Category:1932 births Category:Sportspeople from the United States Category:Track and field athletes Category:African Americans Category:2024 deaths