George Saling

George J. Saling, born on July 27, 1909, in Memphis, Missouri, was a remarkable American track and field athlete who made his mark as a world-class hurdler. At the tender age of three months, his family relocated to Corydon, Iowa, where he would later excel in sports, particularly as the captain of his high school basketball team, graduating in 1927.

His athletic prowess truly flourished at the University of Iowa, where he distinguished himself during his senior year in 1932. Saling clinched the NCAA Championships title in the 110 m hurdles, equaling the world record set by Percy Beard at fourteen point four seconds. Although he faced a setback at the AAU Championships, finishing second to Jack Keller in the 110 m hurdles, he redeemed himself by winning the 200 m hurdles, securing his place on the Olympic team.

At the 1932 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, Saling showcased his exceptional talent by defeating his main competitor, Percy Beard, in both the semi-final and final rounds of the 110 m hurdles, winning by narrow margins of point two seconds and point one seconds, respectively. This victory marked the pinnacle of his athletic career.

Tragically, George Saling's life was cut short when he was killed in a car accident in Missouri just six months after his Olympic triumph, at the young age of twenty-three. His legacy as a talented athlete and Olympic champion endures, reminding us of the fleeting nature of life and the impact one can have in a short time.