Finis Dean Smith (January 15, 1932 – June 24, 2023) was an American track and field athlete, winner of a gold medal in the 4 × 100 m relay at the 1952 Summer Olympics; he was also an actor and noted stuntman, appearing in many films and TV series.
Early life, education, and sports career
left|thumb|Smith atop the podium at the 1952 Summer Olympics
Born in Breckenridge, Texas, Smith won the Amateur Athletic Union championships in 100 m in 1952. At the Helsinki Olympics, he was fourth in the 100 m and ran the leadoff leg for the American gold medal-winning 4 × 100 m relay team.
Later sports career
Later on, Smith competed in amateur rodeo. His events were bareback bronc riding and calf roping. He won championships in both events. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association made him an honorary member.
After sports/Hollywood career
Following his sports career, Smith performed as a professional rodeo cowboy and stuntman in various Western movies, such as The Alamo, The Comancheros, How The West Was Won, McLintock!, Rio Conchos, Big Jake, El Dorado, and Rio Lobo. In 2009, he was inducted into the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum and Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the Texas Track and Field Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Smith is a member of the Hollywood Stuntman's Hall of Fame. In 1997, he was named "All American Cowboy", and in 1998, he received a Golden Boot Award. In 2007, he received the Silver Spur award for his contributions as a stuntman in the film business.
Personal life
Smith died on June 24, 2023, at age 91.
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