MEXICO CITY 1968

In the year of student revolution, politics intruded directly into the Games. Tommie Smith, winner of the 200 metres in world-record time, and third-placed John Carlos bowed their heads and raised black-gloved fists in a Black Power salute during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

They were expelled from the village and sent home in what even at the time was seen as a knee-jerk over-reaction by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The thin air of Mexico City also contributed to world records in the 100 by Jim Hines, the 400 by Lee Evans and the 400 hurdles by Briton David Hemery.

Bob Beamon soared 8.90 metres in the long jump, a leap beyond the measuring capacity in the pit. Officials confirmed the mark, which was to last 23 years, with a steel tape used by building surveyors.

Al Oerter won a fourth consecutive discus title and Dick Fosbury exhibited his radical new technique in the high jump, rolling backwards over the bar in the style which swiftly became the norm.