Ludvik DANEK

Daněk was the first discus thrower to surpass 65 metres, breaking his own World Record in October 1965. A year later, he also cleared 66 metres, but this mark was never ratified because it had to be measured by Daněk himself. The Czechoslovakian thrower was a favourite at the 1964 and 1968 Olympics, but saw his attempts frustrated by American Al Oerter, who won his third and fourth consecutive Olympic titles. Major titles eluded Ludvík Daněk until 1971, when he won the European Championships. He crowned his career the following year, finally winning the Olympic title as well. Following his active career, Daněk became a sports administrator, and was elected vice-president of the Czech athletics federation.

Personal Best: DT – 67.18 (1974).