Births on March 15

Jackson Scholz, American runner (d. 1986)

Jackson Volney Scholz, a name synonymous with speed and endurance in the early 20th century, was an accomplished American sprint runner who captivated audiences and made history. Born on March 15, 1897, in Buchanan, Michigan, to Susan and Zachary Scholz, he would go on to earn the distinctive nickname "The New York Thunderbolt" for his electrifying performances on the track. His remarkable career spanned across three different Olympic Games in the 1920s, a testament to his longevity and consistent excellence, making him the first person to appear in an Olympic sprint final in three separate Olympiads. But Scholz's story didn't end with athletics; he also found success as a writer, further solidifying his diverse talents before his passing on October 26, 1986, at the age of 89.

Early Life and Collegiate Prowess

Jackson Scholz’s journey into the world of competitive athletics began during his formative years. He honed his skills while competing for the University of Missouri in Columbia, where he was also a member of the Kappa Alpha Order, a prestigious fraternity. Following his collegiate career, Scholz continued to represent the elite New York Athletic Club, a hub for top-tier athletes. Despite his significant success on the international Olympic stage, it's a surprising fact that Scholz secured only one national title: the 220 yards AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) title in 1925, showcasing the incredibly high level of domestic competition he faced.

Olympic Glory: A Sprint Through the Roaring Twenties

Antwerp 1920: The First Glimpse of Gold

Scholz's Olympic debut came at the Antwerp Games in 1920, where he immediately made his mark. As part of the formidable American 4 × 100 m relay team, he helped secure a coveted gold medal, a thrilling start to his Olympic career. Individually, he showcased his potential by placing a respectable fourth in the hotly contested 100 m dash. Later that same year, his raw speed was further validated when he equaled the then-World Record in the 100 m, clocking an impressive 10.6 seconds in Stockholm, solidifying his status as a world-class sprinter.

Paris 1924: The Famed "Chariots of Fire" Games

Four years later, the stage was set for the Paris 1924 Olympics, and Jackson Volney Scholz arrived as one of the clear favorites for both the 100 m and 200 m sprint titles. He lived up to these high expectations in the 200 m, demonstrating his mastery of the longer sprint distance. However, in the dramatic 100 m final, he was famously outpaced by Britain's Harold Abrahams, settling for a silver medal. This legendary 100 m race, alongside Eric Liddell’s inspiring 400 m victory, forms the compelling narrative at the heart of the critically acclaimed 1981 film, Chariots of Fire. The movie brought Scholz's era of athletics to a new generation, depicting his rivalry and sportsmanship. In the film, Scholz was portrayed by actor Brad Davis, immortalizing his role in one of sport's most enduring stories, just five years before Scholz's passing.

Amsterdam 1928: A Final Olympic Bow

Demonstrating remarkable athletic longevity, Scholz made a third and final Olympic appearance in 1928 in Amsterdam. As the reigning champion in the 200 m, he once again competed fiercely, ultimately placing fourth in a testament to his continued dedication and skill at the highest level of international competition.

Beyond the Track: Author and Commercial Star

Following his illustrious athletic career, Jackson Volney Scholz transitioned successfully into the literary world, gaining fame as a writer. His ability to craft compelling narratives extended beyond the athletic field, proving his intellectual versatility. Decades later, his enduring legacy found an unexpected spotlight during the 1984 Summer Olympic Games. An iconic American Express credit card commercial, featuring the memorable tagline "Don't leave home without it," brought Scholz back into the public eye. The commercial famously included Ben Cross, who had portrayed his rival Harold Abrahams in Chariots of Fire, alongside an 87-year-old Scholz. When Cross playfully remarked about beating Scholz, the legendary sprinter retorted with mock indignation, "You didn't beat me!" He then humorously proved he was "still pretty fast" by beating Cross to the punch in picking up the tab with his American Express card, a delightful nod to his competitive spirit and the enduring story of their Olympic encounter.

Legacy of "The New York Thunderbolt"

Jackson Volney Scholz’s impact on American athletics is profound. As "The New York Thunderbolt," he not only amassed an impressive collection of Olympic medals but also set world records and showcased a rare consistency across multiple Games. His presence in Chariots of Fire cemented his place in cultural history, allowing his story to resonate far beyond the world of track and field. Scholz's life stands as a testament to the power of dedication, the thrill of competition, and the ability to find new passions beyond one's initial calling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jackson Volney Scholz

Who was Jackson Volney Scholz?

Jackson Volney Scholz was a celebrated American sprint runner who competed in three Olympic Games during the 1920s, winning multiple medals. He was nicknamed "The New York Thunderbolt" and later became a successful writer.

What were Jackson Volney Scholz's major Olympic achievements?

Scholz won a gold medal with the American 4 × 100 m relay team at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics and a gold medal in the 200 m at the 1924 Paris Olympics, where he also earned a silver in the 100 m. He was the first person to appear in an Olympic sprint final in three different Olympic Games.

Is Jackson Volney Scholz featured in the movie Chariots of Fire?

Yes, Jackson Volney Scholz is a prominent figure in the 1981 Academy Award-winning film Chariots of Fire, which depicts the events of the 1924 Paris Olympics. He was portrayed by actor Brad Davis in the movie.

When did Jackson Volney Scholz compete in the Olympics?

He competed in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, the 1924 Paris Olympics, and the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics.

What did Jackson Volney Scholz do after his athletic career?

After retiring from competitive running, Jackson Volney Scholz gained fame as a writer. He also notably appeared in an American Express credit card commercial during the 1984 Summer Olympic Games, alongside Ben Cross, who played Harold Abrahams in Chariots of Fire.