The Official Films Of The Olympic Games: Mexico City- 1968
2000
150 Minutes
Olympics
Available, See Below
The XIXth Olympic Games were held in Mexico City. A record number of 112 countries and 5530 athletes took part. Because of the high altitude, 2240m above sea level, there was concern about the effects that this would have on competitors. There were even predictions by medical authorities, of likely deaths. Fortunately this extreme view turned out to be overly pessimistic. For the first time in Olympic history a woman lit the flame in the Olympic stadium when the Mexican hurdler Enriqueta Basilio had the honor. This 2½ hour Official Film not only looks back at the Opening and Closing ceremonies but also highlights the key events of the Games.One the highlights was that of America’s Bob Beamon, when he shattered the world record in the men’s long jump, a record that lasted for over twenty years. Fellow American Dick Fosbury won the men’s high jump with his now popularized "flop" style. In the woman"s 100m sprint event Wyomia Tyus of the USA became the first person to successfully defend the title. In the men’s 100m all competitors were black, which up to that time was unique. Americans Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised black-gloved fists at the 200m medal ceremony in the black power salute, which later they were banned for.
Ordering Information: The Olympic Museum in Switzerland sells this tape through their Museum Shop. View a PDF format list in English or French to see prices and availability. All sales are made in Swiss Francs, so you may need to convert your currency to make payment in the form of an international money order or wire transfer. They offer VHS tapes in three video formats (PAL, NTSC and SECAM). If you are unaware of what format your machine plays, visit Blackstar.co.uk that lists all tape formats by country.
Mexico City- 1968