Named in memory of the American athlete James Cleveland (Jesse) Owens (1913-1980), one of the finest track-and-field competitors in history. In the space of 45 minutes on 1935 May 26, Owens equalled the world record for the 100-yard dash and set new world records for the 220-yard dash, the 220-yard low hurdles and the long jump. At the 1936 Olympics he won four gold medals, equalling or setting new records in every event. Name suggested by G. V. Williams, who made the identifications involving this object.