Samaranch leaves Olympic legacy

2010-04-22 08:21 BJT

 

Juan Antonio Samaranch, a reserved but talented dealmaker whose 21-year term as president of the International Olympic Committee was marked by the unprecedented growth of the games. The 89-year-old leaves a lasting Olympic legacy.

Born in Barcelona on July 17, 1920, Samaranch enjoyed success as a roller skater and led the Spanish team to the world title.

He pursued a career in sports politics in Francisco Franco's Spain, and won a place on the IOC in 1966.

Former International Olympic Committee president Juan Antonio Samaranch, seen here in February 2010, has died at the age of 89 at a Barcelona hospital from a cardiorespiratory arrest. (AFP/Getty Images/File/Kevork Djansezian)
Former International Olympic Committee
president Juan Antonio Samaranch, seen
here in February 2010, has died at the
age of 89 at a Barcelona hospital from
a cardiorespiratory arrest.
(AFP/Getty Images/File/Kevork Djansezian)