Jesse Owens and Luz Long

In 1936, the Olympic Games were hosted by Germany, then under the control of the Nazi dictator, Adolf Hitler. An American, Jesse Owens held the world record in the long jump, but foot-faulted on his first two qualifying jumps.
The only man who had a chance to beat Owens was Luz Long, Germany’s best long jumper. Long, who wanted to compete against the best, suggested that Owens play it safe by making a mark a foot in front of the takeoff board to assure he could qualify. It worked, and Owens advanced to the finals to compete against Long. In the finals, Owens captures the gold medal and Long the silver. This is more than just a good story. Luz Long treated Jesse Owens with respect and friendship. His race and prejudice of others did not affect Long’s judgment or actions. Accepting people for who they are is an admirable quality worth developing.

Видео Jesse Owens and Luz Long канала Gary Smit