University of Minnesota Athletics
Garry Bjorklund - M Club Hall of Fame
Garry Bjorklund
Cross Country, 1969-73
Indoor Track & Field, 1969-73
Outdoor Track & Field, 1969-73
HOF Class of 1992
Garry Bjorklund was a five-time All-American for the Gophers, in cross country (1969-71), indoor track (1970) and outdoor track (1970-71).
He was the 1971 NCAA champion in the six-mile run; a three-time Big Ten cross country champion; the Big Ten indoor track champion in the two mile run in 1971 and the three mile run in 1972; and the Big Ten outdoor champion in the mile in 1970 and the three mile in 1971.
Bjorklund was also a member of the 1976 U.S. Olympic Team, competing in the 10,000 meter.
His quest for a spot in the Olympics made him most famous. After breaking the NCAA six-mile record he seemed headed to the 1972 Games in Munich, but foot surgery ruled that out and perhaps all competition. Bjorklund continued to train, though. At the 1976 Olympic Trials in Eugene, OR, a competitor stepped on Bjorklund's shoe, completely knocking it off his foot, about halfway through the 10,000 meter final.
Fans urged him on, yelling "B.J.! B.J.!" and he came from behind in the last 200 meters to pass Boston Marathon champ Bill Rodgers and win an Olympic berth. The event was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
Bjorklund, a graduate of Proctor High School, is a member of its hall of fame.