Martin Sheridan

After emigrating to the U.S. from his native Ireland in 1897, Martin Sheridan went on to become one of the top U.S. Olympic medal winners in history. His total of nine Olympic medals is surpassed only by immortals Ray Ewry, Paavo Nurmi and Carl Lewis. A member of the New York City police force, Sheridan's track career produced 11 national titles, including four in the discus and three in the all-around (the forerunner of the decathlon). In Olympic competition, Sheridan reaped his nine medals in 1904, 1906 and 1908 Games in such diverse events as the discus, shot put, standing high jump, standing long jump and stone throw. He also set five world records in the discus and his 1905 mark of 143' 4" lasted for seven years. He might have thrown farther that day had he not had to withdraw because of an injury suffered the previous day in the pole vault. Sheridan died of pneumonia at the age of 36.

Records Held

World Record: Discus Throw - 43.68 m

Championships

1904 Olympics: Discus Throw (1st)
1906 Olympics: Discus Throw (1st)
1906 Olympics: Shot Put (1st)
1906 Olympics: Standing High Jump (2nd)
1906 Olympics: Standing Long Jump (2nd)
1906 Olympics: Stone-Throw (2nd)
1908 Olympics: Discus Throw (1st)

Occupations

Policeman