A Hard Act to Follow: The Renowned Success of an Illinois Standout, Harold Osborn and the Decline of Amateurism
KIN 494_S06-01
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Permalink
https://hdl.handle.net/2142/1870
Description
Title
A Hard Act to Follow: The Renowned Success of an Illinois Standout, Harold Osborn and the Decline of Amateurism
Author(s)
KIN 494_S06-01
Issue Date
2006-05-15
Keyword(s)
History
Athletics
Abstract
This project traces the biographical career of one of the first Illinois track and field athletes Harry Osborn to illustrate the evolvement and eventual decline of amateurism in sports. On the basis of archival research, the study shows that Osborn has been noted for achieving dual conquest in both the decathlon and high jumping. However, he is particularly knows for introducing a non-traditional high jumping technique that pushed height limits and helped break ground for high jumpers to follow. Osborn obtained medals in the 1924 Paris Olympics in both the high jump and decathlon and was overall very successful in competitions. However, the amateur athletic association did not allow athletes to allow any prizes and money, which many athletes, including Osborn, found unreasonable, since it made it more difficult for them to support their training and everyday living. The study describes the changes concerning these restrictions under the professionalization of sports.
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