Lewis was a dominant sprinter and long jumper who topped the world rankings in the 100 m, 200 m and long jump events frequently from 1981 to the early 1990s, was named Athlete of the Year by Track and Field News in 1982, 1983 and 1984, and set world records in the 100 m, 4 x 100 m and 4 x 200 m relays. His world record in the indoor long jump has stood since 1984 and his 65 consecutive victories in the long jump achieved over a span of 10 years is one of the sport’s longest undefeated streaks. Carl Lewis is one of the greatest Olympians of all time. During his career as an Olympic athlete, Carl Lewis won 10 medals. These medals consisted of nine golds, which came from winning four long-jump events, two 100-meter races, two 400-meter relays, and one 200-meter race. He also received one silver medal that came from finishing second in a 200-meter race. Because of his impressive track and field performances, Carl Lewis has earned himself international respect and a place in history as one of the truly great athletes of all time. Carl Lewis went to a total of four Olympic games, and he would have been at five, but the 1980 Olympics were boycotted by the United States. In the 1984 Olympic games at Los Angeles, California, Lewis tied Jesse Owens’ Record of winning four gold medals in one Olympics. Lewis won two gold medals in Seoul in 1988; two gold medals in Barcelona in 1992; and one gold medal in Atlanta in 1996. Since his retirement from sports, Carl Lewis began to pursue his life-long passion for acting. Carl was featured in the TNT movie Atomic Twister which will air in June. In the movie, Carl plays Stu, a courageous security guard. Carl’s most recent project was working six weeks in a film titled, Alien Hunter. The film, starring James Spader, places Carl in the South Pole as a Communications officer for the Air Force. Carl launched his web site www.carllewis.com on March 1st, 2001. The site includes Carl in different acting scenarios, family history, and his sports records. In his speeches, Mr. Lewis speaks on what it takes to win, overcome the odds and develop a “Championship Mindset.” After a brilliant record-breaking career in the sport of Track & Field, Carl Lewis has devoted his time to focusing on five main issues; Family, Youth, Education, Wellness and Fitness within the context of the Carl Lewis International Track & Field Camp and Festival. Carl devotes a great deal of his time and energy to charity. He founded “The Carl Lewis Foundation,” which serves as an umbrella for the many charities that Lewis supports including the College Fund (formerly known as the United Negro College Fund). Carl helped establish the Wendy Marx Foundation (for organ donor awareness) and the UNCF Walkathon in Houston. He is also involved in the “Best Buddies,” program as a Board Member; “Best Buddies” integrates people with special needs into society.
