August 15th , 1873
John J. Flanagan (born August 15, 1873 – died June 19, 1938) was an American athlete and one of the most accomplished hammer throwers in the history of track and field. He was born in Kilbreedy, Co. Limerick, Ireland, and later became a prominent figure in American sports.
Key points about John J. Flanagan:
Irish Origins: John J. Flanagan was born in County Limerick, Ireland. He immigrated to the United States as a young man.
Hammer Throwing Career: Flanagan was a hammer thrower, and he competed in the sport at the turn of the 20th century. He was a three-time Olympic gold medalist in the hammer throw, winning the event at the 1900 Paris Olympics, the 1904 St. Louis Olympics, and the 1908 London Olympics.
World Records: During his career, Flanagan set numerous world records in the hammer throw. His records and achievements solidified his status as one of the greatest hammer throwers in the history of the sport.
Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Championships: Flanagan also had success at the national level, winning multiple AAU championships in the hammer throw.
Retirement: After his athletic career, Flanagan worked as a coach, helping to train other athletes in the hammer throw and related field events.
John J. Flanagan’s contributions to the sport of track and field, particularly in the hammer throw, earned him a place in the history of athletics. His remarkable achievements and records in the sport made him a celebrated figure in the early years of modern Olympic competition.