Bob Beamon, the renowned long jumper who set an unbeatable record at the 1968 Summer Olympics, is making headlines once again. This time, it’s not for his athletic achievements but for auctioning off the gold medal that commemorates his iconic long jump. Christie’s Auction House is set to showcase this unique piece of Olympic history as part of The Exceptional Sale, beginning February 1.
Fifty-five years since his astounding performance in Mexico City, Beamon has made the difficult decision to part ways with the symbol of his athletic prowess. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, the now 77-year-old athlete expressed his sentiments about letting go of the medal that represents a world record leap of 29 feet, 2 1/2 inches. This record still stands as the benchmark for long jumps in the Olympics. “After enjoying and cherishing this medal for over 55 years, I feel it’s time to let it be appreciated by someone else,” Beamon stated. “This decision is a significant and heartening step for me.”
Not only did Beamon’s extraordinary jump set a new standard in the sport, but it also introduced the term “Beamonesque” into popular lexicon. The term signifies an incredible or extraordinary feat, capturing the awe-inspiring nature of Beamon’s record-setting achievement. Looking back on that momentous day, Beamon reminisced about the disbelief and emotional impact that took time to sink in fully.
Christie’s Auction House estimates that the gold medal could fetch between $400,000 and $600,000. Casey Rogers, Head of The Exceptional Sale, emphasizes the significance of this precious item as a tangible reminder of an exceptional Olympic accomplishment that has stood the test of time. “It’s not just a piece of metal; it connects us directly to a momentous occasion in sports history,” Rogers highlighted.
Beyond his indelible mark in the world of sports, Bob Beamon has also pursued his passion for music. Before dedicating himself to track and field, he considered a career in music and decided to explore it further. His musical journey as a percussionist with Stix Bones and The BONE Squad mirrors the same discipline and commitment he exhibited in sports. Beamon even likened his rigorous practice sessions to training for the Olympics.
To celebrate his entry into the music scene, Beamon will be releasing his recording debut on January 12. The release will be accompanied by a live performance at The Cutting Room in New York City, marking yet another milestone in the life of this legendary athlete. Not only did Beamon achieve historic heights in sports, but he also continues to inspire others through his artistic endeavors.
As the gold medal that symbolizes Bob Beamon’s record-setting long jump goes under the hammer at Christie’s, the world eagerly awaits the outcome of this historic auction. Will this unique piece of Olympic history find a new home in the hands of a passionate collector? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – Bob Beamon’s remarkable achievements will forever be etched in both the realms of sports and music.
