BOB BEAMONRobert (Bob) Beamon’s world-record

breaking leap in Mexico City was one of the most extraordinary sporting feats in

Olympic history.

Beamonesque

• Bob Beamon’s first leap at the 1968 Mexico City Games inspired a new word. “Beamonesque” means an athletic feat so superior to what has come before, it is overwhelming.

Last chance

• Beamon was the pre-tournament favouritebut almost went out at the qualifying stage. He overstepped the mark on his first two jumps and with only one left, turned to a team-mate for help. Ralph Boston advised him to take off way before the board. Beamon did so and qualified easily for the final.