Glenn Cunnigham

This passage is about a great track star named Glenn Cunningham.

Lexile Level: 720L

Categories: People & Places Sports & Health

Glenn Cunningham was born in Kansas in 1909. When he was eight years old, there was a gasoline explosion. He suffered severe burns on his legs. Doctors told his mother that they should amputate his legs to get rid of the bad flesh. His mother would not let them do that. The doctors said he would never walk again. Cunningham didn't give up. He worked very hard. Cunningham not only walked, but he became one of the finest runners in history. In track and field events around the world in the 1930s, he won many events. He was admired for his ability, but also for the example he set. In 1933, he was named the best amateur athlete in the United States. Kansas University, where Cunningham went to college, still presents the Glenn Cunningham Award to the track athlete who best shows victory over personal hardship.