Mikhail Krivonosov

Mikhail Krivonosov was the first Soviet hammer throw star, an event the Soviets would later dominate. During his career, Krivonosov won 1956 Olympic silver, behind American Hal Connolly, who was his toughest competitor during his career, won the 1954 European title and added a silver at the 1958 European Championships. Krivonosov also set six world records – 63.64 in 1954; 64.33 and 64.52 in 1955; and 65.85, 66.38, and 67.32 in 1956, and was a six-time Soviet Champion (1952, 1954-58). After finishing his sports career, Krivonosov worked as an athletics coach and as a lecturer at his alma mater, Belarusian State University of Physical Culture. Krivonosov was coach of the 1968 and 1972 Soviet Olympic teams and from 1976 until his death was the pro-rector at his alma mater.

Personal Best: HT – 67.32 (1956).