The high school athlete who failed to clear a basic hurdle

From Track Scrub to Olympic Record Setter: Fosbury and His Flop · 7:12 · Video: Today I Found Out · Watch at the source

In short: Before he revolutionized the high jump, Dick Fosbury was a struggling high school athlete who couldn't even meet the basic requirements to compete in his own state.

In the early 1960s, Dick Fosbury was a sophomore at Medford High School in Oregon. Despite his eventual status as an Olympic record holder, his early career was defined by struggle; he failed to clear the 1.5 meter height necessary to qualify for several high school track meets.

This video explores the transformation of a 'track scrub' into a global icon. It provides a look at the humble beginnings of a technique that would eventually redefine the sport of high jump.

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