Wilma Rudolph, Track and Field Champion
Run Wilma Run!
As a young child, Wilma suffered from polio and scarlet fever. Because of this she only had full use of one leg. Family members would take turns giving her leg massages every day. At that time she wore a leg brace and a special shoe. Although she was not given much chance of walking again, Wilma's determination won out.
She attended Burt High School in Clarksville. While there she broke the state basketball record for girls in her sophomore year. She was also undefeated in all her high school track meets.
Wilma Rudolph attended Tennessee State University in 1957. While there she set all kinds of records.
The high point of her career was in July of 1960 at the Olympic Games. It was at this time that she won gold medals in the 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash and anchoring the 400 meter relay. Certainly she had proven any and all naysayers wrong.
At that time she was the "World's Fastest Woman". As a result of her achievements she received numerous accolades and awards. She was also a track coach and founder of the Wilma Rudolph Foundation.
Hers is a story of perseverance and determination in spite of her earlier health conditions. She was an overcomer.
Sadly, she died on November 12, 1994 from a malignant brain tumor.
SOURCE:
http://www.gale.cengage.com/free_resources/bhm/bio/rudolph_w.htm
Published by Lee Hansen
I am a woman who enjoys the simple things in life. My parents raised 10 children. I have an Associate Degree in Medical Office Assisting as well as a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Education. View profile
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- Wilma Rudolph was born on June 23, 1940.
- She won three gold medals in the 1960 Olympics.
- She had polio as a youngster and wore a leg brace.
She worked for the Mayor's Youth Foundation in Chicago.
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Wow
Great athlete.
He's an amazing person to overcome polio and become such a great athlete.
She's an amazing woman and quite an inspiration.
Well written and a good read ♥ Thanks for sharing :) She was truly an inspiration, and probably still claims the gold at that big track meeet in the sky.
I hope she's running freely in heaven now. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the info.
Unbelievable determination! Wilma Rudolph is a great example of overcoming the odds and winning the race :) cheers
What an amazing athlete she was! Excellent article!