Donovan Bailey
Awards & Honours
7
Awards Won
5
Honours
4
Records
Donovan Bailey's career is defined by historic firsts. He became the first Canadian to legally break the 10-second barrier in the 100 meters, and his 9.84-second world record at the 1996 Olympics stood as a mark of excellence for years. He is one of only a handful of sprinters to win both the 100 meters and the relay gold at a single Olympics. His 50-meter world record of 5.56 seconds remained unmatched for years, only tied by Maurice Greene in 1999. Bailey's achievements earned him induction into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame twice, first as an individual in 2004 and again with his relay team in 2008. He also received the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario, honors that reflect his impact both on and off the track.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
Officer of the Order of Canada
Recognized for his athletic achievements and contributions to Canadian sport.
Order of Ontario
Honored for his outstanding accomplishments as a sprinter and role model.
Canada's Sports Hall of Fame
Inducted as an individual for his contributions to track and field.
Canada's Sports Hall of Fame
Inducted as part of the 1996 Olympic 4x100m relay team.
Ontario Sports Hall of Fame
Inducted for his sprinting achievements and legacy.
Records & Feats
World record in the 100 meters
Ran 9.84 seconds at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, setting a world record that stood until 1999.
World record in the 50 meters
Set a world record of 5.56 seconds in 1996, which was only tied by Maurice Greene in 1999.
Fastest human top speed at the time
Reached 12.10 m/s (43.6 km/h) during his 1996 Olympic 100m run, the fastest ever recorded.
First Canadian to legally break 10 seconds in 100m
Became the first Canadian to run under 10 seconds in the 100 meters, achieving 9.84s.