1956 Melbourne Olympics Men's Javelin Throw Final

The javelin world record had taken a beating since 1952, due to new, more aerodynamic javelin designs, pioneered by American javelinist Franklin "Bud" Held and his brother, Dick. Bud Held used the new javelin to better the world record three times in 1953 and 1955. But a few months before Melbourne Poland's Janusz Sidło pushed the jav out to 83.66 (274-5¾) for another record. The 1954 European Champion, he was the favorite. Norway's Egil Danielsen was also considered a contender, based on a solid 1956 season. Defending champion Cy Young led the qualifiers but would struggle in the final, finishing 11th. Sidło led after three rounds with 79.98 (262-5), which would be his best mark, and would win the silver medal. Then in the fourth round, Danielson launched a low throw that seemed to stay airborne forever, breaking the world record with 85.71 (281-2½).
Gold: Egil Danielsen (NOR) 85.71m new WR
Silver: Janusz Sidło (POL) 79.98m
Bronze: Viktor Tsybulenko (URS) 79.50m
Danielsen is one of the only two javelin throwers, who achieved their world records in the Olympic finals. The other one is Miklos Nemeth, winner of the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games.
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Egil Danielsen died the 29 of july 2019. A big atlethe for Norway is now gone.