JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The legacy of football and track legend Bob Hayes continues to grow in Jacksonville, where a school track and field facility has been officially named in his honor.
The field, now designated the “Bob Hayes Track and Field,” was unveiled during a dedication ceremony in early April 2026 at Matthew Gilbert High School, where Hayes once competed as a student-athlete.
Known as “Bullet Bob,” Hayes remains the only athlete in history to win both an Olympic gold medal and a Super Bowl. He rose to national prominence after accepting a football scholarship to Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, where he excelled in both football and track.
Hayes cemented his place in sports history at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where he won two gold medals and earned his nickname for his unmatched speed. He later went on to a successful career in the NFL.
The April 2 dedication ceremony brought together friends, family members, former classmates, community leaders, faith partners and members of the Bob Hayes Invitational Track Meet, along with the Matthew Gilbert school community.
Speakers at the event reflected on Hayes’ impact not only as an athlete but as a symbol of pride for Jacksonville.
Organizers said the dedication was made possible through the support of Hayes’ loved ones, event organizers, city council members and school board leaders, all working together to ensure his contributions are remembered by future generations.