Track and field is one of the most popular sports in the world, known for its fast-paced, competitive races, and the athleticism of the athletes competing. While the sport has been dominated by male athletes over the years, the women of track & field have proven that they are just as powerful and fast as their male counterparts. Here we take a look at some of the fastest women in the sport, who have broken records and shattered expectations with their lightning-fast speed and incredible power.
Florence Griffith Joyner (USA)
Florence Griffith Joyner, nicknamed “Flo Jo”, is widely regarded as one of the greatest female track & field athletes of all time. During her career, she set world records in the 100m and 200m, and won three gold medals and a silver medal at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul. Her 100m world record time of 10.49 seconds still stands today.
Carmelita Jeter (USA)
Carmelita Jeter, known as the “Jet,” is a retired American sprinter who is the second-fastest woman of all time in the 100m. She won three medals at the 2012 Olympics in London, including a gold medal in the 4x100m relay. Jeter’s personal best time of 10.64 seconds in the 100m is the second-fastest recorded time by a woman in history.
Marie-Josee Ta Lou (Ivory Coast)
Marie-Josee Ta Lou is a sprinter from Ivory Coast who has established herself as one of the fastest women in the world. She won two silver medals at the 2017 World Championships in the 100m and 200m, and broke the 100m African record with a time of 10.78 seconds. Ta Lou is known for her fast start and powerful finishing, making her a formidable opponent in any race.
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (Jamaica)
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is a Jamaican sprinter who has won multiple Olympic and World Championship medals. She is the only woman to have won the 100m Olympic gold medal three times, and also holds the world record for the 60m indoor race. Fraser-Pryce is known for her explosive start and her ability to maintain her speed throughout a race.
Elaine Thompson-Herah (Jamaica)
Elaine Thompson-Herah is a Jamaican sprinter who is the current reigning Olympic champion in both the 100m and 200m. She also holds the Jamaican record in both events, with a personal best time of 10.54 seconds in the 100m and 21.66 seconds in the 200m. Thompson-Herah is known for her smooth and efficient running style, and her ability to effortlessly glide across the track.
In conclusion, these five women have proven that they are some of the fastest and most talented athletes in the world. Their speed and power on the track have earned them numerous medals, records, and accolades, and they continue to inspire future generations of female athletes. With their determination, grit, and skill, these women have left an indelible mark on the sport of track and field.