science · 05 February 1929 · 95 years ago
In 1929, the first U.S. patent for starting blocks, titled "Foot Support," was issued to George T. Bresnahan of Iowa City, Iowa (No.1,701,026). He described his invention as "what might be termed a starting block" to be used on a running track or field. As a University of Iowa coach interested in sports science, he wanted to improve the "get-away" for athletes who were already accustomed to digging holes in the ground to get a firm foot-hold, which varied with the firmness of the soil or cinders. The invention provided an adjustment of tilt to better match an individual's foot, and a cork or rubber surface to provide a firm foot-hold. The device was intended to be connected to the track surface with suitable spikes or nails.
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