Bryan Clay Gold

American Bryan Clay won the gold medal in the 2008 Olympic Decathlon on August 22, 2008, finishing with a total score of 8,791 points. Clay won the silver medal in the event in 2004.ESPN: Feat of Clay: American Wins Gold Medal in Decathlon (August 22, 2008)

Clay was reportedly "disgusted" with his performance in the first five events, even though he still led the field after the first day. He won the first event, the 100-meter dash, but didn't meet his personal expectations in the long jump, shot put or 400 meters. On the second day, Clay lengthened his lead by finishing second in the 110 hurdles and by winning the discus. Exhausted, he finished the 1500 meters last, but had enough of a cushion to still capture the gold.ESPN: Feat of Clay: American Wins Gold Medal in Decathlon (August 22, 2008)