SULLIVAN COUNTY - As the world tunes in for the XXXIII Olympiad in Paris from July 26 to August 11, 2024, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the rich Olympic heritage linked to Sullivan County and its neighboring areas. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and the 60th anniversary of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Both events have notable connections to local athletes who have left a lasting mark on Olympic history.

The Banach Brothers: Port Jervis Wrestling Legends

In 1984, twin brothers Ed and Lou Banach from Port Jervis achieved a remarkable feat at the Los Angeles Olympics. Both brothers won gold medals in wrestling, making history as the first American twin brothers to win gold in the same Olympics. Their journey to Olympic glory is inspiring. Born in Sussex County, New Jersey, to Wraclaw and Genevieve Banach, immigrants from Poland and Germany respectively, the Banach brothers faced significant challenges early in life. After their house was destroyed in a fire, their father left, and their mother suffered a nervous breakdown. The brothers, along with their older sibling Steve, were placed in care and later adopted by Alan and Stephanie Tooley of Montague Township, New Jersey.

The family eventually moved to Port Jervis, New York, where the Banach brothers became standout athletes in high school. Known for their exceptional wrestling skills, Ed Banach was nicknamed “The Horse” for his speed, strength, and toughness. Both brothers went on to attend the University of Iowa, where they excelled under the guidance of coach Dan Gable. Ed Banach won NCAA titles in 1980, 1981, and 1983, while Lou Banach won titles in 1981 and 1983. Their contributions were pivotal in establishing Iowa’s dominance in collegiate wrestling during the early 1980s.

The legacy of the Banach brothers continues to be celebrated in Port Jervis, with markers and plaques honoring their achievements at the town’s entrances and their former school.

Russell Hodge: Roscoe’s Decathlon Champion

Another local hero, Russell Arden Hodge from Roscoe, has an equally impressive story. Born on September 12, 1939, Hodge competed in the decathlon at the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, where he placed ninth. His athletic prowess was further highlighted in July 1966, when he set a world record in the decathlon with 8,230 points at a competition in Los Angeles. This record stood until May 1967, underscoring his status as one of the top decathletes of his time.

Hodge’s Olympic legacy is enriched by his family’s unique history. His mother, Alice Arden Hodge, competed in the high jump at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. This makes them the only mother-son duo in the United States’ Olympic history. In recognition of their contributions to sports and their remarkable achievements, both Russell Hodge and his mother were honored with the Sullivan County Historical Society’s “History Maker” award in August 2003.

Russell Hodge also won a silver medal at the 1971 Pan American Games, adding to his impressive list of accolades.

As we celebrate the 2024 Paris Olympics, it’s an opportune moment to honor the incredible stories of Sullivan County’s Olympic athletes. The Banach brothers and Russell Hodge exemplify the spirit of perseverance, dedication, and excellence. Their achievements continue to inspire and bring pride to our community, reminding us of the rich athletic heritage that resides in our local history.