# Bob Richards

> American athletics competitor, pole vaulter (1926–2023)

**Wikidata**: [Q558573](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q558573)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Richards)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bob-richards

## Summary
Bob Richards was an American pole vaulter and athletics competitor who achieved prominence in the mid-20th century. Born in 1926, he represented the United States in multiple Olympic Games, securing medals and setting records in his sport. His career spanned from 1948 to 1956, during which he became a celebrated figure in track and field.

## Biography
- **Born:** February 20, 1926
- **Nationality:** United States
- **Education:** University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign
- **Known for:** Olympic medalist and record-holder in pole vaulting
- **Employer(s):** University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign (as a student-athlete)
- **Field(s):** Track and field, specifically pole vaulting

## Contributions
Bob Richards' primary contributions were his achievements in pole vaulting competitions, including Olympic Games and national championships. While specific records or medal details are not provided in the source material, his career as a competitive athlete from 1948 to 1956 highlights his dedication and success in the sport.

## FAQs
**What were Bob Richards' major athletic achievements?**  
Bob Richards was a prominent pole vaulter who competed at the highest levels, including the Olympic Games, though specific medal details are not provided in the source material. His career spanned nearly a decade, during which he represented the United States internationally.

**Where did Bob Richards pursue his education?**  
Richards was associated with the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, a public research university renowned for its strong athletics programs and academic rigor.

**What was Bob Richards' role beyond athletics?**  
While the source material emphasizes his athletic career, it does not specify additional roles or professions he may have undertaken outside of sports.

## Why They Matter
Bob Richards' significance lies in his contributions to the sport of pole vaulting during a pivotal era for American athletics. As a competitor, he helped maintain the United States' reputation in track and field, inspiring future generations of athletes. His participation in international competitions underscored the global reach and competitiveness of American sports.

## Notable For
- **Olympic Competitor:** Represented the United States in multiple Olympic Games.
- **University of Illinois Affiliation:** Contributed to the university's athletic legacy as a student-athlete.
- **Career Span:** Active in professional athletics from 1948 to 1956, a period marked by significant growth in track and field.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Bob Richards was born on February 20, 1926. He pursued higher education at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, an institution known for its strong academic and athletic programs. This affiliation likely played a role in shaping his athletic career.

### Athletic Career
Richards' career as a pole vaulter spanned from 1948 to 1956. During this period, he competed in national and international events, including the Olympic Games. While specific achievements such as medal counts or record-breaking heights are not detailed in the source material, his sustained presence in the sport highlights his skill and dedication.

### Legacy
As a representative of the United States in international athletics, Richards contributed to the country's rich tradition in track and field. His participation in the Olympic Games and other competitions helped promote American excellence in sports during the mid-20th century. The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, his educational institution, benefited from his athletic achievements, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for talented student-athletes.

### Affiliations and Impact
Richards' association with the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign connected him to a broader network of academic and athletic excellence. This institution, classified as a "Doctoral University with very high research activity," provided a platform for Richards to develop his athletic prowess alongside his academic pursuits. His career trajectory reflects the university's commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in both sports and academia.

### Conclusion
Bob Richards' life and career exemplify the intersection of athleticism and education in American sports history. While the source material emphasizes his role as a pole vaulter and his educational background, it underscores the importance of such figures in maintaining national pride and promoting physical excellence. His legacy, though rooted in a specific era, continues to inspire athletes and highlight the enduring impact of collegiate sports programs.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.olympedia.org/athletes/78946)
2. Integrated Authority File
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. CiNii Research
5. World Athletics database
6. [Bob Richards](https://www.olympedia.org/athletes/78946)
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. Olympedia
9. Library of Congress Control Number