The late Ben Plucknett had some notable accomplishments during his career, but being a [IAAF ratified] world record holder was not one of them.
Although twice bettering the standing WR in May and July of 1981 it was revealed in mid-year that Plucknett tested positive for anabolic steroid nortestosterone following the Pan Pacific Games in January that year. However, for reason I don't recall, the Athletics Congress felt that tests were not valid and went ahead and ratified his 237-4 as an official American record, which, of course, it still is. For several years until 1986 there was a record oddity with the American record a superior mark to the contemporary world record.
