Otis Davis who won the gold medal in the 400 meters and was on the winning 4 x 400 meters relay team in the 1960 Rome Olympics, passed away on September 14th, 2024 at the age of 92. Otis was the first Gold Medalist from Oregon. Initially, Davis was on the basketball team but asked Bill Bowerman if he could come out for the track team. Bowerman asked him which event he wanted to compete in? Otis is quoted as saying "where do you need me". After the Olympics, Davis stated he was glad Coach Bowerman didn't say the Pole Vault! Davis was a transplant from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where the SEC had not Desegregated. Davis served in the Armed Services before heading to the University of Oregon. Thanks for all you contributed, and living an exemplary life.
