Back to the Olympics Newsfeed

Dick Fosbury, Revolutionary Olympic High Jump Gold Medalist, Dies at Age 76

Dick Fosbury, an Olympic high jump gold medalist, died Sunday at the age of 76.

Fosbury was known as one of the most influential competitors in the history of the high jump, as his "Fosbury flop" technique revolutionized the event.

World Athletics

World Athletics is deeply saddened to hear that 1968 Olympic high jump champion <a href="https://twitter.com/DickFosbury1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DickFosbury1</a>, who revolutionised his event by introducing the 'Fosbury flop' technique, passed away on Sunday at the age of 76.<br><br>Truly one of the greats. <br><br>ud83dudcf0: <a href="https://t.co/PHUr7pdcNA">https://t.co/PHUr7pdcNA</a> <a href="https://t.co/vBeFZ92aqH">pic.twitter.com/vBeFZ92aqH</a>

In addition to his innovation, Fosbury was also active in athletics throughout his life.