Los Angeles (AFP)
He was the oldest of the US Olympic champions: Harrison Dillard, gold medalist in the 100-meter Olympics and 110m hurdles in the Olympic Games in 1952, died Friday at the age of 96, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced on Saturday ( USOPC).
Dillard, who died of stomach cancer in Cleveland, was a sprint star in the late '40s. His moment of glory came in the final of the Queen's Run at the 1948 Olympics, which he won in front of his compatriot Barney Ewell. A victory validated by the very first photo finish of the story.
Four years later, he won the Helsinki Games 110m hurdles, becoming the first male Olympic champion in both events. And the only one since no one else has so far managed this feat.
In total, Dillard won four Olympic titles, adding his victories with the US team to 4x100m relay in 1948 and 1952.
"The legacy that Harrison Dillard has left with his 100m and 110m hurdles gold medals is a testament to an extraordinary achievement," the USOPC said in its statement.
"Our sport has lost a personality of its own and we extend our condolences to family and friends," added the body.
Born July 8, 1923 in Cleveland, Ohio, Dillard first served his country during the Second World War, before defending his colors on the tracks.
A sniper in the 92nd Infantry Division of the US Army, nicknamed "Buffalo Soldiers" because it consists only of black soldiers, he was deployed in Europe. On this old continent where he would finally follow the steps of the idol Jesse Owens, to achieve his own exploits ...
After his career, Dillard became a recruiter for the Cleveland Indians baseball franchise.
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