At the Mexico Olympics of 1968, Bob Beamon redefined the boundaries of the possible by shattering the long jump world record with his first jump in the final.

The American’s leap of 8.90 metres pulverised the competition and was a staggering 55 centimetres better than the old benchmark.

This almost immeasurable record would endure for over two decades.

The Essential Olympic Stories podcast is brought to you by Eurosport in association with Bridgestone.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.