Wilbur Thompson

Wilbur Thompson
Thompson at the 1948 Olympics
Personal information
Born April 6, 1921
Frankfort, South Dakota, U.S.
Died December 25, 2013 (aged 92)
Long Beach, California, U.S.
Alma mater University of Southern California.[1]
Height 183 cm (6 ft 0 in)
Weight 89 kg (196 lb)
Sport
Sport Athletics
Event(s) Shot put, discus throw
Club ILAAC, Los Angeles
Achievements and titles
Personal best(s) SP – 17.12 m (1948)
DT – 46.89 m (1942)[2][3]

Wilbur Marvin "Moose" Thompson (April 6, 1921 – December 25, 2013) was an American shot putter who won a gold medal at the 1948 Summer Olympics.

While studying at Modesto Junior College, Thompson won the national junior college title in 1939 and 1940. He then served in the US Army during World War II, and in 1946 placed second at the NCAA championships. He held a world ranking of #6 in 1947, #2 in 1948, #3 in 1949 and #4 in 1950. Thompson graduated with a master's degree in petroleum engineering and later worked in the oil production and at the California State Lands Commission.[2] He died aged 92 and was survived by three daughters.[4]

His grandson, McLeod Bethel-Thompson, is a professional quarterback in the Canadian Football League.

References

  1. USC OLYMPIANS: 1904–2004, USC Trojans Athletic Department, Accessed August 13, 2008.
  2. 1 2 Wilbur Thompson. sports-reference.com
  3. Wilbur Thompson. trackfield.brinkster.net
  4. Former Olympic Champion, USC Track And Field Star Wilbur Thompson Dies. CBS Los Angeles (December 31, 2013)


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