Al Oerter Interview

[annamacho]

did any one notice that in the opening clip of him throwing it shows the judges marking off throws in the shot put venue...

[Tancred66]

He was my sporting hero at school. I practiced and practised the discus and became a local champion in the middle of England.

It changed my life and gave me self confidence.

All thanks to big Al.

[Schrittwieser]

He worked for Grumman as an engineer. He had heart problems, when his doctor recommended heart transplant surgery, Al turned to him and said "no I've had an interesting life I think I will go out with what I came in with".

[asgdrew]

You don't see athletes like this anymore. Well spoken, polite, moddest but not meek. Now athletes are on par with celebrities and quite frankly, i think it's disgusting.

[usmctanks1]

I met him once at the Empire State games years ago, when introduced, nobody really understood what he had done, as they just said "Gold medalist". What a nice man, talked to anyone and everyone who asked him questions, and gave out autographs. Just a great guy. I did not know he passed away, RIP to one of (if not the most)overlooked US OLYMPIAN ever.

[broadjumper1]

Yes, he was not a egotistical guy, one that let his performance speak for itself. Truly epitomized the Olympic creed and sportsmenship.

[brmacneil]

Al Oerter truly defines the term "Olympian."

[MainStreetMonochrome]

Inspiring figure. Perhaps, among all athletes, the most under-appreciated relative to his accomplishments. Thx for posting

[broadjumper1]

Absolutely. Most of the throws guys never get much pub, so it's not too surprising, but how many have a 24 year career and throw a PR at rge age of 43? It's rumored that he actually threw 245' that same year while he was being filmed for a TV segment. A great and humble man.

[Lbeast11]

Yup.....I have that interview.

[CTabor7333]

RIP

[Mredsal]

What a competitor! Just the best ever. He died far too young and will be remembered around the world. A great inspiration to us all and a nice man.

Mike, England