I first met Mike Fanelli at the NorCal 10,000m in 1981. He ran his PB, just over 31 minutes, and I was back in pack, setting my PB that day, as well. I had seen Mike around at races for several years, and began to spend time with him in 1984-85 as he managed Reebok Running’s athletes. Since then, we would catch up at events, share a few words and tell stories.
Each day, I check my Facebook page, to see what Mike Fanelli has put up from his Track & Field garage, probably the finest collection of track memorabilia owned by a human being in the known world.
Today, I had to post this one, and with Mike’s permission, I will begin to post some of his most amazing findings. But, take it from me, friend Mike on Facebook, as his daily track & field musings are some of the finest in the world. And check the comments, some pretty amazing people reach out to him.
When Michael Landon Coached Up Terry Bradshaw, from the collections of Mike Fanelli / Track & Field Garage
LITTLE JAV ON THE PRAIRIE
When Michael Landon Coached Up Terry Bradshaw
In 1954, Eugene Orowitz had the longest high school javelin chuck in the nation at 193′ 4″…it earned him an athletic scholarship to USC. There, he ruined his shoulder and quit the sport.
He then found acting, and changed his name to Michael Landon…a name that he selected from a local phone book after being advised by his agent to do so.
In 1966, a big kid out of the Bayou State, Terry Bradshaw, busted the national schoolboy record in the spear chuck multiple times in a four week stretch…his high school best was recorded at 244 11 3/4’….the kid was also a half decent quarteback too.
Shit like this happens all the 🤣
Editor’s note:
In 1974, 1975, 1978 and 1979, Terry Bradshaw lead the Pittsburg Steelers to Super Bowl titles. Mr. Bradshaw was first quarterback to win 3 and 4 Superbowls. He also lead the Pittsburg Steeler sto eight AFC Central championshps. Elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989, in his first year of elgibility. Terry Bradshaw was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
His best javelin throw in high school was 245 feet or 74.68m at Woodlawn HS. The man has a serious arm. A beloved NFL analyst for many years, he is a colorful character in American sports.
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