Long Jumper Bob Beamon: ‘Holding the Oldest Olympic Record Is a Beautiful Thing’

To help celebrate the Summer Games in Paris (July 26-August 11), AARP is checking with some of the most iconic figures in U.S. Olympic history about their magical moments — and the new passions that shape their lives today.

Bob Beamon is the record holder of all Olympic record holders. His 29-feet 21 ¼ inch jump at the 1968 Mexico City Games shattered the then-world record by nearly 22 inches. The fact that it still stands as an Olympic record —American Mike Powell leapt 2 inches longer in 1991 to take the world record— makes it one of the most astonishing feats in sports history. . The fact that it still stands as an Olympic record makes it one of the most astonishing feats in sports history. Growing up under challenging circumstances in Queens, New York, Beamon turned to athletics as a means of escape and quickly demonstrated extraordinary talent that would make him an ambassador of athletics for decades to come. Off the track, Beamon has channeled his fame into philanthropy, working tirelessly to support youth education and fitness.

Golden reflections: Even in Mexico City in 1968, I didn’t think the record was going to last but for a few minutes. There were so many great jumpers. At some point, I thought the record would get broken, and in 1991 Mike Powell did beat it at an international event. But nobody’s outdone it at the Olympics in 55 years. For me, holding the oldest Olympic record is a beautiful thing. Even more incredible, the word “Beamonesque” is now in online dictionaries and refers to an athletic feat that surpasses anything that’s come before. That’s crazy!

Meaning in the medals: This year I put my gold medal up for auction [Christie’s sold it for $441,000 in February]. I’m 77 and I’ve lived with it long enough to get joy from it. Over the years, I’d go to the bank, take it out of the vault and give it a kiss. But it was time to allow someone else to have it. The person who bought it is a great advocate for preserving precious things, and I know it will be in safe hands for the future.

Outside the arena: I’ve done all kinds of things: coaching athletes, promoting fitness, getting involved with business and fundraising, serving on several boards. But just this year, I followed through on a major dream of mine and released a jazz album with some other musicians. It’s called Olimpik Soul, featuring yours truly on percussion.

The shape I’m in: At this stage, I’m not running or jumping but, for sure, I’m walking. That keeps me healthy.

Going to the games? Yes. Our band is performing some songs from the new album and I’ll get to some track and field events.

Eyes on Paris: I have a feeling it’s going to be a great year for the Americans but my advice to the next generation is, don’t worry about world records. Just do whatever it takes to win.