Jackson State University alum Michael Tinsley made all historically Black college/universities (HBCUs) proud by earning a silver medal during the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London Aug. 6.
Tinsley, born in Little Rock, Ark., claimed silver in the 400-meter hurdles with a personal best time of 47.91 seconds. He finished just behind Dominican Republic’s Felix Sanchez’s gold medal time of 47.63 seconds. Puerto Rico’s Javier Culson took bronze, beating African-American hurdler Angelo Taylor, who was looked upon as a favorite to win the event after winning the 400 meter hurdles in both the 2000 and 2008 Olympic Games. Taylor still has a chance to win a medal when he competes in the 4×400 meter hurdles relay race on Aug. 8.
“Thanks to everyone that has supported me and prayed for me,” Taylor said. “I up short of reaching my goal. But thanks be to God for allowing me to participate.”
Tinsley, believed to be the only HBCU alum so far to win a medal in this summer’s Olympics, told reporters that studying at Jackson State was “the best experience of his life.” But he now has a new Olympic experience that should give his HBCU experience a run for its money.
“I remember all the support I got from the faculty when I was there,” he said. “JSU gave me an opportunity to get an education and to do what I love to do, which is run track.”