A legend like we almost don't make anymore.
Michel Jazy, legendary runner from the de Gaulle years in France, died at the age of 87, according to information from his entourage at L'Équipe which we have confirmed.
Several times world record holder, twice European champion and Olympic vice-champion in the 1,500 m in 1960, he was one of the biggest stars of his time with Jacques Anquetil.
To complete his legendary record, all he needed was an Olympic title (the World Championships did not exist).
Michel Jazy came close twice, failing to finish second in Rome in 1960 and just off the podium (4th) in Tokyo four years later.
During his career, Michel Jazy broke 9 world records in athletics, including three on his favorite track, that of the Chéron stadium, in Saint-Maur.
“It’s a special stadium, protected from the wind, where you could reach the public by extending your hand,” he often explained.
It was also there that he said goodbye, on October 12, 1966. The famous Mexico 1968 Games, not being to his taste because of the altitude, had then accelerated the end of his career.
His last lap of the track ended, like a symbol, with a final world record.
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