Bob Beamon at a Glance
- Net Worth: $2.5 Million
- Birthdate: August 29, 1946
- Birthplace: South Jamaica, Queens, New York
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Track & Field Athlete (Retired), Graphic Artist, Motivational Speaker
What is Bob Beamon’s Net Worth?
Bob Beamon has a net worth of $2.5 million in 2025. The Olympic legend and former world record holder has built his financial standing through a diverse portfolio of public speaking engagements, corporate partnerships, art sales, and the strategic auction of sports memorabilia. Unlike modern athletes who command multi-million dollar contracts, Beamon competed during the amateur era of the Olympics, meaning his wealth was generated largely after his athletic prime. His fortune saw a significant, public boost in early 2024 when he liquidated a major asset, further securing his retirement and financial legacy.
In February 2024, Beamon made international headlines by selling his historic 1968 Olympic gold medal at a Christie’s “Exceptional Sale” auction. The medal, which symbolizes his “Leap of the Century,” sold for $441,000. Beamon stated that the decision was driven by a desire to share the artifact with the world rather than keeping it hidden in a safety deposit box. This transaction provided a substantial immediate influx of cash, capitalizing on the booming market for high-end sports memorabilia.
Early Life
Bob Beamon’s journey began in South Jamaica, Queens, New York, where he faced significant hardships from birth. He was orphaned at just eight months old when his mother died of tuberculosis, and he never knew his father. He was subsequently raised by his grandmother in the Jamaica Houses public housing project. Despite the difficult environment, Beamon found an outlet in athletics. He attended Jamaica High School, where he was discovered by legendary track coach Larry Ellis. His raw talent earned him a spot at North Carolina A&T State University, though he later transferred to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) on a track scholarship. His collegiate career was marked by both athletic dominance and civil rights activism, including a suspension from UTEP for refusing to compete against Brigham Young University in protest of the Mormon Church’s then-policies regarding race.
Career
Bob Beamon’s professional legacy is defined by one of the most singular achievements in the history of sports, yet his career extends well beyond a single jump. He established himself as a dominant force in collegiate track and field before qualifying for the 1968 U.S. Olympic team. His career reached its absolute zenith at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Entering the long jump final, Beamon was a contender but not the clear favorite to shatter records. On his very first attempt, he jumped 8.90 meters (29 feet, 2½ inches), breaking the existing world record by nearly two feet. The jump was so long that the optical measuring equipment installed for the games could not register it, forcing officials to use a manual tape measure. This record stood for 23 years and remains the Olympic record to this day, often cited by sports statisticians as one of the greatest outlier performances in athletic history. Following his Olympic success, Beamon was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the 15th round of the 1969 NBA Draft. Although he never played professionally in the NBA, the draft selection underscored his freakish athletic ability. He formally graduated from Adelphi University in 1972 with a degree in sociology, which paved the way for his transition into youth counseling and administration. After retiring from competition, Beamon dedicated decades to coaching and sports administration. He served as a track coach at United States International University in San Diego and later became the Director of Athletic Development at Florida Atlantic University. His administrative career also included organizing the South Florida Inner-City Games, where he worked to provide athletic opportunities to at-risk youth, mirroring the support he received as a child.
Real Estate
Bob Beamon currently resides in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He relocated to the coastal city after spending many years living in Florida, specifically in the Fort Myers and Miami areas, where he was deeply involved with the Art of the Olympians museum. His current home offers a quieter retirement lifestyle away from major media hubs, though he maintains easy access to travel for his speaking schedule. While the specific value of his residence is private, the move reflects a shift toward a relaxed, high-quality coastal living environment.
Personal Life
Beamon has been married to Milana Walter Beamon for many years. Together, they co-authored his autobiography, The Man Who Could Fly, which details his rise from the streets of New York to the Olympic podium. The couple has two daughters, Tameka and Deanna. Outside of his professional commitments, Beamon is a dedicated humanitarian. He serves as a global ambassador for the Special Olympics, a role that keeps him connected to the international sporting community. Despite approaching his 80s, he maintains an active lifestyle, balancing his passion for drumming and graphic design with his philanthropic work.
