Jackson Scholz, 89, Loser to Abrahams in 1924 Olympic Race, Dies in Florida

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. — Jackson Scholz, who once was considered the world’s fastest human but who lost the climactic 1924 Olympic race depicted in the movie “Chariots of Fire,” has died at the age of 89.

Scholz, who died at his home Sunday, refused to see the Oscar-winning 1981 film even though it earned him a spot on an American Express commercial, because his name was mispronounced in the movie, said his brother-in-law, Harry Rahner.

In 1924, Scholz earned the gold for the United States in the 200-meter dash in the Paris Olympics but lost to British runner Harold Abrahams in the 100-meter dash.

There will be no services for Scholz, whose wife died last year. He will be cremated, and his ashes will be scattered at sea.