OSU Honors Jesse Owens with New Champion Plaza and Sculpture
Ohio State University (OSU) has unveiled Champion Plaza and a significant sculpture honoring the legendary athlete, Jesse Owens. This event coincides with the 90th anniversary of Owens’ remarkable achievements during the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, where he won four gold medals. His triumph not only challenged Adolf Hitler’s racial ideologies but also highlighted the systemic racism of 1930s America.
Champion Plaza and the Jesse Owens Memorial
To honor Owens’ legacy, OSU has renamed its recreation centers following his death in March 1980. The facilities now bear his name as:
- Jesse Owens Recreation Center South – located at W. 11th Ave. and Worthington St.
- Jesse Owens North – located at Lane Ave. and Neil Ave.
However, the university sought to create a more prominent memorial. They commissioned a sculpture to serve as the centerpiece of the newly established Jesse Owens Memorial Plaza at Ohio Stadium’s north end. The project, which had a budget of $350,000, allocated $100,000 specifically for the artwork honoring Owens.
Sculptor Selection Process
The selection of the sculptor was overseen by OSU, with Curtis R. Patterson from the Atlanta College of Art being chosen among 32 competing artists. This choice stirred controversy due to the exclusion of local talent, but Ruth Owens, Jesse’s widow, expressed her satisfaction with Patterson’s design.
Unveiling the Sculpture
The sculpture, named “Celebration for a Champion,” was dedicated on May 24, 1984. Its design features:
- Four triangles representing Owens’ Olympic gold medals.
- Latticework symbolizing his struggles.
- Gold bars embodying the hurdles he overcame.
This impressive structure measures 35 feet by 12 feet and weighs around 15,000 pounds. It is described as “penetrable” public art, inviting visitors to walk through it and engage with Owens’ inspiring quotes inscribed within the design.
Impact of the Tribute on OSU and the Community
The Jesse Owens Memorial Plaza not only enhances the entrance to Ohio Stadium but also creates a welcoming green space that aids in crowd management on game days. The sculpture stands as a tribute to Owens and reflects the challenges he faced, serving as an inspiration for future generations.
As OSU continues to celebrate Owens’ legacy, efforts are underway to attract private donations to support the Jesse Owens Memorial Foundation scholarships. The ongoing recognition of Jesse Owens fosters pride within the university and serves as a testament to his lasting impact on both sports and society.
