Indianapolis, Indiana -- If the first and second halves of the Circle City Classic belonged to the Alcorn State Braves on Saturday, it was former Olympic sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos who owned halftime.
Smith and Carlos, honored with the 2013 Major Taylor Award at halftime of the Braves’ 48-0 win against rival Grambling State, each raised a hand high in the air, just as they did during their 1968 Olympic medal ceremony following gold and bronze medal performances, respectively, in the 200-meter dash.
The gesture sent many of the 22,357 in attendance at Lucas Oil Stadium to their feet amid thunderous applause. The Grambling State marching band played a tribute to the duo, while the medal ceremony was flashed on the scoreboard.
During the medal ceremony 45 years ago in Mexico City, Smith raised his right, black-gloved fist as a sign of Black Power
, while Carlos raised his left fist to represent black unity. The silent protest vaulted the runners — who were expelled from the Games for the gesture which was considered controversial by many at the time — to activists and human rights’ spokesmen.Photo Gallery: 30th Circle City Classic game and halftime show
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