Bob Hayes Invitational Track and Field Meet

Bob “Bullet “ Hayes was one of the most accomplished athletes in the world.
Unknowingly Bob began his career in 1958 at
Gilbert High School as an outstanding
football and track star. Later, improving his skills and career at Florida A&M University as a halfback and kick returner, finishing his college career with 1,123 rushing yards. He continued by competing in the 1964 Olympics on the United States Track Team in Tokyo, Japan, at which he won two gold medals. First, Hayes tied the world record and won the 100 meter dash. He then established the world record in anchoring the 400-meter relay team. Hayes was dubbed as the “World Fastest Human” and was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the seventh round as a wide receiver.
During his illustrious professional football career, Hayes’ speed and agility changed the way defense was played. Thus, the NFL installed “zone defense”, which was created to stop Bob Hayes. Hayes was the driving force behind the Dallas Cowboy’s in eight post season games, their first Super Bowl title and two NFC crowns. Inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame 2009.
Hayes remains the only athlete to have earned both Olympic gold medals and a Super Bowl ring. The life and legacy of Jacksonville’s Number 1 Athlete of the 20th Century will live on.