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Legacy Of CU's First Olympian, Ambassador David Bolen, Still Strong

BOULDER — University of Colorado athletes have built a long and proud tradition as Olympians, with this year's Tokyo Games seeing CU's Olympic representatives hit the 100 mark.

That makes it the perfect time to remember CU's first Olympian, Ambassador David Bolen, who is still watching the Buffs' progress — and the rest of the Olympic competition — with a keen eye.

Now 98 and residing in Arizona, Bolen is the man who introduced the Buffaloes onto the Olympic and international stage. An All-American and national champion at CU, he earned a berth in the 400 meters at the 1948 Olympic Games in London, where he finished fourth.