John in 2009, still a stud.
He never won an Olympic medal, but
John Brenner was a UCLA superstar and legend to a generation of throwers in the 1980s. And thanks to a sharp-eyed mole, we note his masters comeback at Winston-Salem nationals. He’s
entered in the M50 shot — his specialty — as well as the hammer, javelin, discus and weight throw. All with NM listed (no mark). Meet director
Noel Ruebel wrote me: “I studied countless hours of his technique when he threw 73’ 10.75” for an American Record.” He’ll compete for the SoCal Track Club, and club leader
Mark Cleary confirmed that this John was the former Bruin who took bronze in 1987 IAAF worlds. According to his Mt. SAC
Hall of Fame bio: “While a student at UCLA, John was the 1984 NCAA champion in both the shot put and discus. His collegiate record of 71-11, established in 1984, stood for 11 years. John was a two-time U.S. national Champion in the shot. He captured the bronze medal in the 1987 World Championship in Rome. He finished 4th at the 1984 Olympic Trials, and missed the 1988 Olympic Trials due to an injury.” Great to see you back, John!
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On a related note, and speaking as one of the Co-Directors of the 2014 USA Masters Throws Championships meet to be held this August 2nd-3rd at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, I would STRONGLY encourage John to consider entering at least the Throws Pentathlon event there. Given his well-deserved reputation as one of the greatest multi-event throwers in history, can Jim Wetenhall’s 2006 American Record of 4244 points withstand John’s efforts? I for one would love to witness the competition if John decides to throw! By the way, with prize money available for high scores on BOTH days this year, John may be able to pay for his flight from California!
This has to be the highlight for Winston-Salem. Looking forward to watching some of his competitions.
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