Bill

LR 115

Honor Walter "Thane" Baker for his many accomplishments in the sport of track and field and his extraordinary success in the 1952 and 1956 Summer Olympics

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rick Holdcroft

The resolution formally honors Walter “Thane” Baker for his Olympic achievements and lifelong contributions to track and field.

Adopted

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Bill Summary · LR 115

Summary of LR 115: Honor Walter "Thane" Baker

LR 115 is a ceremonial Nebraska Legislative Resolution adopted by the One Hundred Ninth Legislature, First Session, to honor Walter “Thane” Baker for his historic achievements in track and field and his Olympic success in 1952 and 1956.

Overview

Bill type: Legislative Resolution (ceremonial)
Introduced: April 8, 2025
Adopted: April 15, 2025
Status: Adopted
Sponsor (primary): Holdcroft (and a list of co-sponsors)
Purpose: To publicly recognize and honor Thane Baker for his contributions to athletics and his Olympic legacy

Purpose and Intent

The resolution acknowledges Thane Baker as one of the greatest runners and Olympians associated with Nebraska and the United States.
It highlights Baker’s lifelong involvement in track, including officiating for 55 years and mentoring others.
It emphasizes Baker’s status as the oldest living male United States Olympic medalist in track, and the second oldest in the world, underscoring his enduring impact on sport.

Key Provisions

Section 1: The Nebraska Legislature honors Walter “Thane” Baker for his numerous track and field achievements and his extraordinary success in the 1952 and 1956 Summer Olympics.
Section 2: The Legislature directs that copies of the resolution be sent to Walter “Thane” Baker and his family.

Background on Walter “Thane” Baker (as cited in the resolution)

Born: October 4, 1931, in Elkhart, Kansas
Education: Attended Kansas State University; joined the track team as a walk-on
NCAA: 1953 NCAA champion in the 220-yard dash
1952 Helsinki Olympics: Silver medal in the 200-meter event (notably wore borrowed shoes from Kansas State University)
1956 Melbourne Olympics: Gold medal in the 4x400-meter relay, silver medal in the 100-meter dash, and bronze medal in the 200-meter dash
Residence: Bellevue, Nebraska
Legacy: Recognized as a leading figure in Nebraska and U.S. track history; longtime official and mentor

Legislative Process and Timeline

Introduced: April 8, 2025
Laid over (procedural status at introduction): April 8, 2025
Adoption: April 15, 2025
Signed by presiding officers (President/Speaker): April 15, 2025
Fiscal impact: No fiscal provisions or appropriations indicated; ceremonial recognition

Potential Impact

Provides formal statewide recognition of Baker’s athletic achievements and lifetime contributions to track and field.
Highlights Nebraska’s connection to Olympic history and can inspire young athletes, officials, and coaches.
Carries no direct fiscal implications; primarily serves a ceremonial and educational purpose.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.