Second Lieutenant Alonzo Babers (No. 882), US Air Force, crosses the finish line first to win the gold medal in the 400 meter race at the 1984 Summer Olympics.
DOG ASIDE:
Leading up to the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics….the track men’s 400 m dash had been mostly dominated by USA Antonio McKay throughout the year leading up to the ’84 Olympics…..having commented on many occasions, with a certain amount of arrogance, that he was the man to beat in the Games…..but as the competitors rounded the last curve in the men’s 400 m dash on Wednesday, August 8, 1984…..another American had a different idea….as USA Alonzo Babers sped down the track to break the tape and win gold in front of the hometown crowd. Gabriel Tiacoh of the Ivory Coast took silver…..becoming the 1st athlete from his country to ever win an Olympic medal…..as Tiacoh was followed by USA Antonio McKay to win the bronze.
When the race was over…..the highly confident Antonio McKay before the race…..was seen on his knees just past the finish line….with his head in his hands…..in total disbelief of what had just transpired.
