Wilma Rudolph
Wilma Rudolph was an American sprinter who overcame childhood polio and became a world-record-holding Olympic champion and international sports icon in track and field.
Runner
June 23, 1940
Cancer
November 12, 1994
54
Clarksville, Tennessee
Wilma Glodean Rudolph (June 23, 1940 รขยย November 12, 1994) was an American sprinter who triumphed over childhood polio to become a world-record-holding Olympic champion and an international sports icon in track and field. At the 1960 Rome Olympics, she won three gold medals, making her the first American woman to accomplish this achievement. Additionally, Rudolph secured a bronze medal in the 4×100-meter relay at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. As an athlete, she utilized her platform to raise awareness about social issues.