Olympic gold medalist and former 400-meter world record holder Butch Reynolds visited the Big Orange Run Club Thursday at Lions Park in West Liberty, spending time with local young runners and sharing advice from his accomplished track and field career.
Reynolds is one of the most decorated 400-meter runners in American history. In 1988, the Akron, Ohio, native set the world record in the 400 meters with a time of 43.29 seconds in Zurich, breaking Lee Evans’ nearly 20-year-old record. Reynolds’ mark stood as the world record for more than 11 years before Michael Johnson broke it in 1999.
Reynolds also competed at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, where he won a silver medal in the individual 400 meters and a gold medal as part of the U.S. 4×400-meter relay team. He went on to become a three-time world champion and remains part of the U.S. 4×400-meter relay team that set a world record of 2:54.29 in 1993.
His 43.29 remains one of the fastest 400-meter times ever recorded. World Athletics currently lists Reynolds third on its all-time outdoor 400-meter list.
Despite those accomplishments, Reynolds’ message Thursday centered less on records and medals and more on the lessons that come with being an athlete. He encouraged Big Orange runners to give their best in all areas of life and to surround themselves with people who support their goals.
Reynolds has been a longtime supporter of the West Liberty-Salem running community and has worked with the school’s girls track and field program, including the 2019 and 2021 state championship teams.
During his visit, Reynolds encouraged athletes to give their best not only in sports, but in all areas of life. He also stressed the importance of surrounding themselves with people who support their goals and help them become better.
“We are privileged to have Butch share his story with our athletes. His energy and passion for youth sports is infectious.”
— Ann Vogel, retired WLS cross country and track and field coach
The visit provided Big Orange Run Club members with an opportunity to hear from one of Ohio’s most accomplished track athletes while reinforcing the values of hard work, dedication and having a strong support system.
The Big Orange Run Club will wrap up its season Aug. 22 with the Big Orange Summer Run at Lions Park. The 5K is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m., with proceeds supporting the West Liberty-Salem cross country programs.
