Mike Powell

Mike Powell is an American former track and field athlete, born on November 10, 1963, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest long jumpers of all time. Powell began his professional career in the early 1980s, where he consistently performed well in long jump events and eventually broke the world record in 1991.

Powell is known for his incredible speed, strength, agility, and jumping ability. He has won numerous individual awards, including two World Championships, and holds the record for the longest jump in history.

Off the field, Powell is recognized for his coaching and influence, mentoring young athletes and fostering the next generation of track and field stars.

Early Career

• Powell was born and raised in Philadelphia and began competing in track and field events in high school. He gained recognition for his long jump abilities early on, earning a scholarship to the University of California, Irvine, where he continued to excel.

Professional Career

• Powell began his professional track and field career in the early 1980s, quickly establishing himself as a formidable long jumper on the international stage. His most significant achievement came in 1991 when he broke the world record for the longest jump, a record that still stands today.

USA Track and Field

• Powell represented the USA in multiple international competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships.

Achievements:

• World Championships: Gold medalist in 1991 and 1993.
• Olympics: Silver medalist in 1988 and 1992.
• Powell still holds the world record for the longest jump, set in 1991.

• Event: Specialized in the long jump event.
• Skills: Known for his incredible speed, strength, agility, and jumping ability. Powell is celebrated for his consistency, powerful take-offs, and competitive spirit.

• Family: Powell is married and has two children.
• Coaching: Powell has since retired from professional competition and now coaches young athletes, passing on his knowledge and experience.

• Mike Powell is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional track and field. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the field, inspiring millions of fans and athletes around the world.

World Record for Long Jump:

• 8.95 meters set in 1991

World Championships:

• Gold medalist in 1991 and 1993

Olympic Games:

• Silver medalist in 1988 and 1992

Books

• Greene, B. (1991) The Franchise: A History of Sports Illustrated Magazine. New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
• Johnson, R. (2002) The History of American Track and Field. New York: Greenwood Publishing Group.

Websites

• USA Track and Field: Information about Mike Powell’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.usatf.org
• International Association of Athletics Federations: Details about Powell’s career and records. Available at: https://www.worldathletics.org

Articles

• Sports Illustrated: Mike Powell: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.si.com/
• The Guardian: Mike Powell’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/mike-powell

Interviews and Documentaries

• Mike Powell: Breaking the Unbreakable (2016): This documentary provides a detailed look at Powell’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Mike Powell, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com