DURHAM, N.C. (AP) — LeRoy Walker, the first African-American to head the U.S. Olympic Committee and coach an American Olympic team, has died. He was 93.
Scarborough & Hargett Funeral home says Walker died Monday in Durham. No cause of death was given.
Walker led the U.S. Olympic Committee from 1992-96, shepherding the games played in Atlanta. He also coached the U.S. track team in 1976, which brought home 22 medals, including gold in the long jump, discus, decathlon, 400-meter hurdles and both men’s relays.
Walker spent more than 40 years at North Carolina Central University, first as track coach, then later as chancellor of the school.
Current U.S. Olympic Committee Chairman Scott Blackmun says Walker’s impact on the U.S. Olympic movement and track and field will be felt for generations to come.
