Discus Throw, Men

Paul Jessup was the world record holder, having thrown 51.73 (169-8¾) in 1930 and had won the AAU in 1930-31. But the best thrower in 1932 was John Anderson, who on the AAU and the Olympic Trials. Anderson led from round two, with 48.86 (160-3¾), and improved that in rounds three and four, with 49.39 (162-0½) and 49.49 (162-4½). In round four Frenchman Jules Noël got off a big throw. He was helped by his hydration plan. Though the US was in the midst of prohibition and alcoholic beverages were outlawed, Noël convinced US officials that wine was an essential part of his diet. He snuck into the tunnel of the stadium to drink in between rounds. On his big fourth round throw, his discus landed out beyond Anderson’s leading 49.39 (162-0½) mark. But the officials were watching the pole vault and did not see it land. Noël was given an extra throw but could not produce his top throw again and he would eventually place fourth. Anderson had the four longest throws of the competition, not counting Noël’s un-measured toss.