Ken Bantum

Ken Bantum was a shot putter who had the misfortune to compete in the same era as the redoubtable Parry O’Brien, although Bantum was the only putter to defeat O’Brien in a 100-meet stretch. In 1956 Bantum was AAU and NCAA champion (for Manhattan College), and finished second to O’Brien at the Olympic Trials. He also competed for the New York Pioneer Club. Bantum was known for his speed, for a weight thrower, and often ran for Manhattan College as a member of their shuttle hurdle relay.

Bantum later became a track & field coach at St. John’s University. He coached their throwers to win seven national weight and hammer championships, set two American records, earn three NCAA All-America honors, and win three Penn Relays titles.

Personal Bests: SP – 18.30 (60-0½) (1956); DT – 54.58 (179-1) (1957); HT – 53.80 (176-6) (1958).