Al Oerter Quotations

It was like a tidal wave went through the city.

So what if I never win my fifth gold medal; It's only one end of the string. It's competing that matters. It's proving that there is a place for guys like me in sports. It's a persona challenge to extend myself.

I don't compete with other discus throwers. I compete with my own history.

There's no substitute for work. There are no shortcuts. There are no secrets.

As long as I can concentrate and remain somewhat calm, I can normally do very well.

I don't think the discus will ever attract any interest until they let us start throwing them at one another.

To exercise at or near capacity is the best way I know of reaching a true introspective state. If you do it right, it can open all kinds of inner doors.

Competition in its best form is a test of self. It has nothing to do with medals. The winner is the person who gets the most out of themselves.

It has to be the '80 Olympic hockey team.

I never set out to beat the world. I just set out to do my absolute best.