Read, Watch or Listen

Jonathan Edwards' 1995 triple jump world record of 18.29 meters, set in Gothenburg, Sweden, remains one of track and field's longest-standing records. He wore sunglasses to mask his fear before the competition, unexpectedly breaking his own world record twice. Edwards attributes his record to a unique combination of speed and lightness, a style unmatched since. He believes limited investment in track and field and the evolving athletic styles have contributed to the record's longevity. While he acknowledges the record will eventually be broken, he prefers not to witness it.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.