Florence Griffith Joyner

Florence Griffith Joyner2

American track and field athlete

Florence Griffith Joyner

Florence Delorez Griffith Joyner (December 21, 1959 – September 21, 1998), also known as Flo-Jo, was an American track and field athlete. She is considered the fastest woman of all time based on the world records she set in 1988 for both the 100 m and 200 m. These records still stand as of 2023.

Early life

Florence Griffith was born in Los Angeles, California. She was the seventh of eleven children. She began running at an early age and joined the track team at Jordan High School in Los Angeles. She later attended California State University, Northridge and then transferred to UCLA.

Career

Griffith Joyner's breakthrough came in the 1984 Olympics held in Los Angeles. She won a silver medal in the 200 meters. Her flamboyant style and speed made her a favorite among fans and media.

In 1988, she set the world record for the 100 meters with a time of 10.49 seconds at the U.S. Olympic Trials. Later that year, at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, she won three gold medals (100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meters relay) and one silver medal (4x400 meters relay).

Personal life

Florence Griffith married Al Joyner, an Olympic triple jump champion, in 1987. They had one daughter, Mary Joyner. Florence was known for her unique style on the track, often wearing one-legged racing suits and sporting elaborately decorated fingernails.

Death

Florence Griffith Joyner died in her sleep at the age of 38 on September 21, 1998, in Mission Viejo, California. The cause of death was attributed to an epileptic seizure.

Legacy

Griffith Joyner's impact on the sport of track and field is profound. Her world records in the 100 meters and 200 meters remain unbroken. She is remembered not only for her speed but also for her style and charisma.

See also

• List of multiple Olympic gold medalists
• List of Olympic medalists in athletics (women)
• List of world records in athletics