HELSINKI, Finland — Walter Davis, the most decorated field athlete in Tiger history, turned in his crowning achievement Thursday evening at the IAAF World Championships, winning the triple jump title at Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium.
Improving on his previous season best by nearly an entire foot, Davis launched himself 57-7 3/4 in taking home the title.
“I felt good today,” said Davis. “I jumped over 56-5 on my first jump and then I started getting into the right rhythm.”
Opening up the competition with a leap of 56-6, Davis took the early led and set the stage for what would come later.
“He took the led early and then I realized that he was probably in the position to hit,” said Davis’ coach, LSU assistant Boo Schexnayder. “Honestly, I didn’t feel that would be enough to win because there were several other great jumpers that could jump further then that, but in the end they couldn’t overcome the elements.”
In round two, France’s Karl Taillepierre and the Bahamas’ Leevan Sands each bettered Davis’ distance, posting leaps of 56-8 and 57-0 3/4, respectively. Round three saw Romania’s Marian Oprea improve to 57-1, a mark that would eventually land him the bronze.
But it was Davis that changed the course of the competition. Despite heavy rain and wind, the U.S. champion stepped up, battled through the conditions and improved his mark by nine and three-quarters of inch to surge to the top of the standings.
“After my big jump I started to look at my watch because I was telling myself this is my year, this is my time to win,” said Davis.
The victory comes as particularly sweet for the two-time Olympian who was been plagued by injuries that resulted in less than stellar showings at both last year’s Olympic Games and 2003’s World Championships in Paris.
“I don’t think there is any question that he (Davis) perceives it as some type of redemption,” said LSU assistant coach Boo Schexnayder.
“He was the best person out there tonight,” added Schexnayder. “He was prepared, in the right frame of mind and he didn’t let the elements distract him. It was a great performance.”
Also in action Thursday was former Lady Tiger Debbie Parris. Parris wrapped up her season by finishing 14th in the semifinals of the 400-meter hurdles. She crossed the line in 55.96 seconds.
Competition from the World Championships continues Friday.