Shot Put, Men

The USA had not lost this event since 1936, but a big challenge from the GDR throwers was expected. But Poland’s Władysław Komar opened with 21.18 (69-6), his best throw of the event and it would hold up for the gold medal. The GDR’s Hans-Peter Gies threw 21.14 (69-4¼) in the first round, which would be his best throw but it got him only fourth place. In round four, America’s George Woods moved into second with 21.17, only one centimeter out of the lead. In that round, Hartmut Briesenick (GDR) equaled his countryman with 21.14 (69-4¼) but moved into the bronze medal position based on second-best throw (21.02-21.01). In the last round Woods unleashed what looked to be his best mark. It hit Komar’s marker before landing, so it was considered to be better than that mark, but it was measured at only 21.05 (69-0¾), not an improvement. Komar later became an actor. Sixth-place finisher Brian Oldfield was the first to use a new technique, the rotational spin technique, similar to discus throwing style.