Zdeněk Koubek

Zdenka_Koubkova_1936.jpg

Zdeněk Koubek (1913–1986) was a Czechoslovak athlete who competed in track and field events. Koubek is notable for his achievements in women's athletics during the early 1930s and for his later transition to living as a man.

Early Life and Career

Zdeněk Koubek was born on December 8, 1913, in Přerov, Austria-Hungary (now the Czech Republic). He initially competed in women's athletics under the name Zdena Koubková. Koubek excelled in middle-distance running and set several world records in the 800 meters and 1000 meters events.

Athletic Achievements

Koubek's most significant achievements came in 1934 when he set a world record in the women's 800 meters with a time of 2:12.4. This record was set at the Women's World Games in London. Koubek also won the 800 meters at the 1934 European Athletics Championships in Turin, further establishing his dominance in middle-distance running.

Gender Transition

In 1935, Koubek underwent a medical examination that revealed he was intersex. Following this discovery, Koubek transitioned to living as a man and changed his name to Zdeněk Koubek. This transition marked the end of his competitive athletic career, as he could no longer compete in women's events and there were no provisions for intersex athletes in men's competitions at the time.

Later Life

After retiring from athletics, Koubek worked in various professions, including as a taxi driver and a theater worker. He lived a relatively private life following his transition and did not seek public attention.

Legacy

Zdeněk Koubek's story is significant in the history of athletics and the understanding of intersex and transgender issues in sports. His achievements in women's athletics remain notable, and his life story contributes to the broader discourse on gender and sports.

See Also

• Intersex in history
• Transgender and sports
• Women's World Games
• European Athletics Championships