Breaux Greer: The Javelin Titan of American Track and Field

Breaux Greer was born on October 19, 1976, in Houston, Texas. Raised in a sports-loving environment, Greer demonstrated an early affinity for athletics, excelling in multiple sports during his school years.

He initially pursued baseball and football, but his interest shifted to track and field, where he found his passion for the javelin throw. Greer’s unique combination of strength, speed, and raw power set him apart from other athletes and made him a natural fit for javelin throwing.

In college, Greer attended Northeast Louisiana University (now the University of Louisiana Monroe), where he continued to develop his javelin-throwing skills.

His prowess in the sport grew during these formative years, setting the stage for an impressive professional career.

Rise to Fame and Athletic Achievements

Breaux Greer’s career as a professional javelin thrower began in the late 1990s. Over the years, he developed a reputation as one of the most powerful and exciting javelin throwers in the world, marked by his intense energy and flamboyant style.

He quickly became one of the dominant figures in American track and field, winning multiple national titles.

In 2000, Greer made his Olympic debut at the Sydney Games. Although he didn’t reach the finals, his performance brought him significant attention and motivated him to improve. Over the next few years, Greer continued to build on his skills, and his dedication paid off.

By the 2004 Athens Olympics, he had become one of the top javelin throwers in the world. However, an injury during the Games affected his performance, and he finished in 12th place. Despite this setback, Greer remained undeterred, continuing to push himself toward setting records.

One of the high points of his career came in 2007 when Greer set the American record in javelin with a throw of 91.29 meters (299 ft 6 in) during the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

This achievement not only showcased his talent but also solidified his place as one of the greatest American javelin throwers of all time. His record remains one of the longest-standing in American track and field history, a testament to his exceptional skill and athleticism.

Olympics and International Competitions

Throughout his career, Breaux Greer competed in three Olympic Games: Sydney in 2000, Athens in 2004, and Beijing in 2008. Although he didn’t secure a medal in these events, his performances were nonetheless noteworthy.

His 12th place finish in Athens was his best Olympic result, a remarkable feat given his challenges with injuries.

Greer’s record-breaking throws and energetic personality made him a fan favorite, both domestically and internationally, and he helped bring greater visibility to javelin throwing in the United States.

In addition to his Olympic appearances, Greer also competed in several international track and field events, including the World Championships.

His strong performances and record-setting throws continued to draw attention and elevate the sport of javelin throwing in the U.S., where it had historically been less popular than other track and field events.

Injuries and Challenges

Like many elite athletes, Greer faced numerous injuries throughout his career. Javelin throwing is an extremely physically demanding sport, requiring explosive strength and flexibility, especially in the shoulder and arm.

Greer’s injuries, including a torn ligament in his knee and a damaged shoulder, were a constant hurdle. The injuries limited his training and affected his performance, especially in high-stakes competitions like the Olympics.

Despite these challenges, Greer’s resilience and determination kept him going. He underwent several surgeries and endured extensive rehabilitation to continue competing at the highest level.

These experiences with injury and recovery shaped his career and added to his legacy as a fiercely determined athlete.

Post-Athletic Career and Media Appearances

After retiring from competitive javelin throwing, Breaux Greer made appearances on reality television. In 2008, he joined the cast of American Gladiators, a popular athletic competition show, where he took on the nickname “Hurricane.”

His physicality and intensity made him a natural fit for the role, and he quickly became one of the show’s standout personalities. Greer’s appearances on American Gladiators helped him reach a new audience and expanded his career beyond athletics.

In addition to his television career, Greer has worked as a personal trainer and coach, sharing his expertise with aspiring athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

His knowledge of fitness, strength training, and recovery has made him a sought-after coach, and he has continued to inspire others through his work in the field of sports and fitness.

Personal Life

Breaux Greer is married to Katy Mixon, an actress best known for her roles in the television series Mike & Molly and American Housewife.

The couple married in 2016 and have two children together. Their relationship has been in the public eye, and they are known for their shared sense of humor and adventurous spirit.

Despite his public persona, Greer is known to be private about his personal life. He has focused on family, fitness, and coaching in recent years, maintaining a quieter profile since his days in the spotlight.

Net Worth and Legacy

Breaux Greer’s estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, accumulated through his athletic achievements, sponsorships, and television appearances.

While not as financially lucrative as some other sports, his career in javelin throwing earned him respect, admiration, and a unique place in American track and field history.

Greer’s legacy as a javelin thrower is marked by his American record, his multiple national championships, and his role in popularizing the sport in the U.S.

His charismatic personality and competitive spirit have inspired a generation of young athletes, especially in the field of track and field, where he remains an influential figure.

Conclusion

Breaux Greer’s story is one of talent, resilience, and dedication. From his early days as a promising athlete to his record-setting career as a javelin thrower, Greer has left an indelible mark on American sports.

Despite the challenges he faced with injuries and setbacks, his achievements in javelin throwing have set a standard in the sport.

His post-athletic career and contributions as a coach and television personality continue to inspire, making Greer a true legend in the world of athletics.