EP 3 – Florence Griffith Joyner: No one can run that fast!
Legends of Women's Sports: Florence Griffith Joyner, an athletics icon
The world of women's sport has witnessed many pioneers and legends who have made history, shaped inclusion, and paved the way for future generations of athletes. Among these iconic figures, Florence Griffith Joyner, nicknamed Flo Jo, occupies a special place as an exceptional athlete whose impact on the world of women's athletics remains undeniable.
"It's not possible. No one can run that fast!"
Flo Jo, an American athlete, stunned the world at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
During this time, she won three gold medals and one silver medal in athletics, thus writing a memorable page in sporting history. Her most memorable achievement remains her exceptional performance in the women's 100 meters, where she set an incredible time of 10.49 seconds, a world record that remains unmatched to this day.
Beyond the records!
Flo Jo's impact on women's sports goes far beyond her records. She also made an impression with her unique and daring style.
With her painted nails and elaborate hairstyles, she showed the world that she could be both an athlete and a woman.
A Wonder Woman-esque physical transformation
However, Florence Griffith-Joyner's meteoric rise and dramatic physical transformation have raised questions among her competitors and sports observers. Laurence Bily, five-time French 100-meter champion in the 1980s, said:
"Beating Griffith-Joyner had become mission impossible. Her power and physique allowed her to have a hyper-efficient running technique from the first to the last step. She was Wonder Woman, in fact..."
This comparison with Wonder Woman illustrates Flo Jo's impact well. She has become an almost mythical figure in women's athletics .
Despite her record-breaking achievements and positive influence, Flo Jo's story is also surrounded by controversy and suspicion. His outstanding performance has raised questions about the use of doping substances , including growth hormones . Although she was subjected to numerous doping tests during her career, she was never caught out. These suspicions tarnished Flo Jo's reputation and sparked debate in the sports world.
Additionally, critics also targeted her eccentric outfits and elaborate hairstyles. Some believe that these clothing and aesthetic elements may have given her an advantage over her competitors by improving the perception of her speed and performance. However, it is essential to remember that an athlete's performance is based on a combination of talent, training, determination and strategy, not just on appearance.
The debate continues today, particularly in swimming and tennis...
Questions that remain unanswered.
At the age of 38, Florence Griffith Joyner is died of asphyxiation during an epileptic seizure . Her records, although sometimes tainted by controversy, remain etched in the history of women's athletics.