Sports World Mourns the Tragic Loss of the Olympian Legend Who Celebrated His 97th Birthday a Week Ago

The first person to win two Olympic gold medals at the pole vault, Bob Richards, died at 97. He became a well-known face for being the first athlete to appear on the front of the American breakfast cereal Wheaties. Richards became an ordained minister in 1946 and contested for president in 1984 on the Populist Party ticket.

Recently, his son confirmed, “He passed in his sleep peacefully” letting the world know the news. Nicknamed the Vaulting Vicar, Richards was a popular name among generations. Thus, his passing made fans teary-eyed and they rained heart-wrenching comments.

Fans lamented the demise of Olympics veteran

Bob Richards or later Rev. Robert E. Richards, became a hero in the 1950s. In fact, he was the first male athlete to win two gold medals on the Olympic stage at the pole vault. Long before today’s champions who use fiberglass to ride unimaginable heights, Richards used an aluminum pole to vault over 15 feet.

Besides being an inducted minister, he got recognition when he won medals in 1952, Helsinki, and in 1956, Melbourne. The Vaulting Vicar was one of America’s most celebrated athletes – an inspirational orator, and the cover person of Wheaties. In fact, he became the director of the Wheaties Sports Federation for being the face and voice of the “Breakfast of Champions.”

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Being an active sportsperson for almost 60 years, Richards’s passing away devastated the citizens of America. People in or around the athletic world mourned the news, and took to their Twitter handle to express their grief. While remembering his legacy some people posted –

Richards has two sons and one daughter who eventually confirmed the news. It was clear from their statement that the veteran passed away in his sleep. Indeed, Richards created a prevalent appearance on television and radio, and made numerous national tours. He spoke to school and community groups, presenting awards at athletic banquets, and generating torrents of publicity.

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While he is at peace now, his legacy will remain in the hearts of the citizens.