Jackson Scholz

Jackson Scholz was the first man to reach the final of an individual sprint event at three separate Olympic Games. In 1920 he was a finalist in the 100m, in 1924 he won the 200m and was second in the 100m, and in 1928 he made the final of the 200m, narrowly missing a fourth Olympic medal. Initially Scholz was placed equal third with [Helmut Körnig] of Germany but the judges ruled in favor of a run-off the next day. Scholz had already left the track and begun partying and the next day he was in no shape to run, so he declined the offer. The photo of the finish subsequently showed that this was, in fact, the correct decision. Scholz, who attended Missouri, had a great competitive record and could claim victories over all the great sprinters of his era. In his 10 races with [Charlie Paddock] he won seven and tied another, but the 220y in 1925 was, surprisingly the only AAU title that he won. Scholz also laid claim to world records at 100y, 200m, and the 4 x 100m relay. Jackson Scholz later became well known as a writer of pulp fiction. The movie, )Chariots of Fire,” again made Scholz famous by portraying him as a leading character. Shortly after the movie, when asked how he would like to be remembered, he remarked, )... as a winner, a successful runner, a decent writer and a gentleman. And one other thing ... I was fast. I hope they remember I was fast.)

Personal Bests: 100 – 10.5 (1924); 200 – 21.2y (1926).