Morgan Taylor, American hurdler and coach (d. 1975)

Olympic Glory and Record Pursuits

Frederick Morgan Taylor, born on April 17, 1903, and passing away on February 16, 1975, carved an indelible mark in the history of American track and field. A formidable hurdler, Taylor holds the unique distinction of being the first athlete ever to win three Olympic medals in the demanding 400-meter hurdles event – a testament to his consistent excellence and longevity in a sport that pushes the limits of human endurance and precision. His national prominence was further highlighted in 1932 when he was bestowed the immense honor of serving as the flag bearer for the United States delegation at his final Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Taylor's journey to global recognition was also characterized by a compelling pursuit of world records, a path fraught with the specific rules and technicalities of early 20th-century athletics. In 1924, during the Olympic trials, he astounded spectators with a "world best" time of 52.6 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles. While this outstanding performance was rightly recognized as a national record, it was not initially ratified as a world record by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), the sport's global governing body (now known as World Athletics). The distinction between a "world best" and an official "world record" often hinged on precise conditions, equipment, and the strict interpretation of rules.

Later that year, at the 1924 Paris Olympics, Taylor showcased his incredible talent by clinching the gold medal. Remarkably, he clocked the exact same time of 52.6 seconds. However, this historic performance once again fell short of world record status because he inadvertently made contact with and dislodged one of the hurdles during his race. In an era where such precision was paramount for record ratification, this minor technicality, while not impeding his gold medal win, prevented the time from being officially recognized as a new world record.

His determination remained undimmed. In 1925, Taylor continued to dominate the American scene, securing his second Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) title in the 440-yard hurdles, posting another "world best" time of 53.8 seconds. This effort, too, was ultimately discounted as a world record, partly due to the slight difference in distance between 440 yards and the standard 400 meters, along with other potential specific regulations of the time concerning metric versus imperial distances for record purposes. It was finally at the 1928 Olympic trials that Frederick Morgan Taylor's quest for an undisputed world record culminated in success. There, he powered through the 400-meter hurdles in an exceptional 52.0 seconds, a performance that the IAAF officially accepted and ratified, marking a definitive milestone in his illustrious career.

Beyond the Track: Collegiate Success and Post-Athletic Contributions

Taylor's athletic versatility was evident long before his Olympic fame. While pursuing his education at Grinnell College, a distinguished liberal arts institution, he was a dual-sport athlete, excelling in both track and field and football. His collegiate career was highlighted by significant achievements, including capturing the NCAA 220-yard hurdle title in 1927. Demonstrating his broad athletic capabilities, he also secured a commendable second-place finish in the long jump at the 1925 NCAA championships.

Following his graduation and illustrious athletic career, Frederick Morgan Taylor transitioned into professional life. He initially leveraged his drive and disciplined work ethic as a salesman for the prominent Chicago Tribune newspaper. Later, he dedicated his talents to education and sports development, embarking on a fulfilling career as a teacher and an athletics coach. In this capacity, he undoubtedly shaped and inspired countless young athletes, passing on his vast knowledge and passion for the sport. The Taylor family's athletic heritage continued into the next generation, as his son, F. Morgan Taylor Jr., also became a competitive track and field athlete, specializing as a long jumper, thereby perpetuating the family's legacy in American athletics.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick Morgan Taylor

Who was Frederick Morgan Taylor?

Frederick Morgan Taylor (1903–1975) was a pioneering American hurdler, best known as the first athlete to win three Olympic medals in the 400-meter hurdles. He also held a world record in the event and served as the U.S. flag bearer at the 1932 Olympics.

What was his most significant Olympic achievement?

His most significant achievement was being the first athlete to secure three Olympic medals in the demanding 400-meter hurdles event, earning him a place in Olympic history. He won gold in 1924, silver in 1928, and bronze in 1932.

Why were some of his early record times not ratified?

Some of his early exceptional times, like his 52.6 seconds at the 1924 Olympics, were not ratified as world records due to strict rules of the era. For instance, in 1924, he knocked over a hurdle, which disqualified the time for world record consideration, even though he won gold. Other "world bests" were discounted due to slight differences in event distances (e.g., 440 yards vs. 400 meters) or specific IAAF rules of the time.

When did Frederick Morgan Taylor finally set an accepted world record?

He finally set an officially accepted 400-meter hurdles world record of 52.0 seconds at the 1928 Olympic trials, which was ratified by the IAAF.

What did Frederick Morgan Taylor do after his athletic career?

After his distinguished athletic career, Taylor worked as a salesman for the Chicago Tribune. He later became a teacher and an athletics coach, continuing to contribute to sports through education and mentorship.

Did any of his family members also compete in athletics?

Yes, his son, F. Morgan Taylor Jr., followed in his footsteps and competed in track and field, specializing as a long jumper.