Squaw Valley 1960 Winter Olympics

“Did that skier miss that gate?” And the “instant replay” feature was born. When officials could not tell whether or not a skier in the men’s slalom missed a gate, which would disqualify him, they asked CBS-TV to review the videotape. Not only did CBS-TV oblige, but they recognized a need for instant replay.

Other highlights and low lights of the 1960 Winter Games in Squaw Valley:

This is the only year the bobsleigh competition was. Only 9 countries showed interest in competing, so the organizing committee decided not to include it in the program.

The men’s biathalon and women’s speed skating made their Olympic debuts, as did metal skis. Frenchman Jean Vuarnet became the first skier to win a medal on metal skis, instead of the traditional wooden ones.