In May, the historic Ferry Field in Ann Arbor will see a plaque honoring Jesse Owens unveiled. The International Athletics Foundation, an organization that preserves historic track and field moments, will replace the original plaque dedicated to Owens with a new one.
The event will coincide with the 2024 Big Ten Outdoor Track and Field Championships, which will be held on May 9th at 10 a.m. The field is located off South State Street in Ann Arbor.
Jesse Owens made history at Ferry Field during the 1935 conference championships when he broke multiple world records in quick succession despite battling an injury. His remarkable achievements in the 100-yard dash, long jump, 220-yard dash, and 220-yard low hurdles are still remembered today. Owens went on to win four gold medals at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Germany, with Adolph Hitler in attendance.
The original plaque dedicated to Jesse Owens at Ferry Field was removed recently due to reasons unknown. However, it has been replaced by a new World Athletics Heritage Plaque that aims to honor his legacy and recognize his remarkable achievements in track and field history.
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