Harry Hyman, a Jewish sprinter, held these corks in his hands while running for the University of Pennsylvania in the early 1900s. Hyman won the U.S. National Championship and achieved 49.1 seconds in the 400 meters and 22.1 in the 200 meters in 1905, the 2nd and 3rd fastest times posted by an American during that calendar year. Hand corks were used as runners believed holding corks tightly in their hands helped to gain better arm balance and run faster. Comes with the original cardboard plaque that states this information. Also comes with a nice quality whistle, marked the "Acme Thunderer Made in England" and "Seron MFG Co." From the collection of the esteemed Helms Hall Sports Museum and will come with letter of provenance/authenticity from Lelands.com.