Stanley Floyd

Champion track and field sprinter, University of Houston

What is Stanley Floyd known for?

Born in Albany, Georgia on June 23, 1961, Stanley Floyd is a renowned American sprinter. He is an alumnus of Dougherty Comprehensive High School in Albany, GA. In 1980, Floyd was a strong contender for the 100m title, however, he was unfortunately denied his opportunity due to the United States boycott of the 1980 Summer Olympics.

Later, Floyd attended the University of Houston, where he was part of the Houston Cougars track and field team. Floyd initially aimed for Olympic success in 1984, but subsequently turned his focus to American football. Floyd initially attended Auburn University but left after a year.

In 1980, Floyd recorded the best global time in the 100 metres at 10.07 seconds, a feat that improved on the World junior record. He was a winner of 100m at the USA Olympic Trials for the 1980 Olympic team, but as mentioned earlier, could not compete due to the US boycott of the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. Floyd had already earnestly won the NCAA and USA National Championships in the men's 100 metres. This impressive winning streak was last accomplished 24 years ago by Bobby Morrow in 1956. Floyd was among 461 athletes who received a Congressional Gold Medal instead.

In 1981, Floyd won the US championship indoors at 60m and was second in the US National Championships at 100 metres. He was also the reserve at the 1981 Athletics World Cup for Carl Lewis. Floyd had an impressive indoor season in 1982, establishing world records in various events. His top performance in the 100m occurred on June 5, 1982, during the 1982 NCAA 100m title in Provo, Utah, where he clocked an impressive 10.03 seconds. This record stood as the NCAA meet record until 1990.

Despite his athletic prowess, Floyd decided to retire from track and field in 1983 to try his hand at American football in the National Football League (NFL). However, he didn't achieve much success in American football. He was released by the Atlanta Falcons and Los Angeles Express of the United States Football League (USFL), and failed to make the cut with the Houston Oilers. In 1987, he earned the right to again compete as an athlete.

The experts at Track and Field News ranked Floyd among the best in the US and the world in the 100m sprint events from 1980 to 1987. They also recognised his early promise as a 200m runner, ranking him seventh in the world and fifth in the US in 1981.

Over the years, Stanley Floyd has contributed significantly to track and field sports, establishing a series of records and consistently ranking among the best. His life and career remain a testament to his athletic prowess, hard work, and determination.