Michel Jazy

Michel Jazy was a middle-distance runner from France who won the silver medal in the 1960 1,500 metres, behind Australia’s Herb Elliott. Jazy is best known for setting the mile world record with 3:53.6 in June 1965, breaking Peter Snell’s world record of 3:54.1. However, Jazy set multiple world records, including two at 2,000 metres, with the second being the first time the distance was run under 5 minutes – 4:56.2 in 1966. He also set two world records in the 3,000 metres, at 2-miles, and as a part of the 4x1500 metre relay.

Jazy won three medals at the European Championships, winning the 1,500 in 1962 and the 5,000 metres in 1966, adding a silver medal in the 1,500 in 1966. He also competed at the 1958 Europeans, finishing 10th in the 1,500 metres.

Domestically Jazy won 12 titles at the French Championships. At his main event, 1,500 metres, he won six titles in 1956-58, 1960, and 1963-64. He was a three-time French Cross-Country Champion, winning in 1962, 1965, and 1966. His other national titles came in the 800 metres in 1961-62 and the 5K in 1966.

Personal Bests: 1500 – 3:36.3 (1966); Mile – 3:53.6 (1965); 5000 – 13:27.6 (1965).