Russ Hodge

Russ Hodge is considered by some athletics experts as the having the most talent of any decathlete ever, but one who never fulfilled his almost unlimited potential. Bigger than almost any decathlete of his era at 6-3 (1.90) and 225 lbs. (102 kg.), he had seemingly incongruous personal bests in the 100 of 10.2 (1970) and in the shot put of 18.56 (60-10¾) (1969). His only Olympic appearance in 1964 resulted in a ninth-place finish but in 1966, he became world record holder with 8,230 points (8,119 on the 1985 tables), narrowly defeating his arch-rival, Bill Toomey. Despite his immense talent, Hodge was often injured, which likely kept him from reaching his potential. He twice competed at the Pan American Games, finishing 4th in 1963 and 2nd in 1971. His mother, Alice Arden, high jumped at the 1936 Olympic Games.

Personal Bests: 100y – 9.6 (1966); 100 – 10.2 (1970); 400 – 47.9 (1970); LJ – 7.69 (25-2¾) (1966); SP – 18.56 (60-10¾); DT – 53.13 (174-4) (1969); JT – 64.49 (211-7) (1966); Dec – 8119 (1966).