Throughout history, Black female track stars have been a particularly powerful force in the sport. There are countless Black women who broke records, challenged societal norms and paved way for future generations.
Their monumental contributions go far beyond the countless medals they’ve earned. It’s also measured ini the barriers they’ve shattered and the cultural impact they’ve had on society. So many young Black girls with an athletic dream have countless heroes to look up to. From groundbreaking firsts to incredible athleticism, these women have proven time and time again that their strength, perseverance and determination transcend the sport.
Here are seven Black female track stars whose legacy has forever changed the sport.
Alice Coachman
Alice Coachman made history at the 1948 London Olympics by becoming the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal. Competing in the high jump, her victory was a monumental moment, both in sport and the Black community. At the time, the United States still battled segregation, and Coachman’s win served as a symbol of overcoming racial and gender barriers.
Her success in track and field went far beyond the Olympics. Coachman also won 25 national titles in the 1930s and 1940s, dominating both the high jump and other sprinting events. She quickly became a role model for countless athletes who followed in her footsteps. Her contributions to sports entirely paved the way for future Black female athletes to shine on the world stage.
Wilma Rudolph
If you know sports, you know Wilma Rudolph. In fact, her name became synonymous with speed. The “Black Gazelle,” as she was often called, made history at the 1960 Rome Olympics by becoming the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. Competing in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4×100 meter relay, Rudolph’s dominance on the track earned her the title of “fastest woman in the world.” She was the 20th of 22 children, yet still found a way to shine amongst the crowd.
Rudolph’s success broke down racial and gender barriers in a time when Black athletes fought against segregation and discrimination. Beyond her Olympic victories, Wilma became a symbol of Black pride and female empowerment, inspiring generations of women and athletes from all backgrounds. Her accomplishments led to her becoming an international icon, one whose legacy is still honored in the track and field world today.
Mae Faggs Starr
Mae Faggs Starr was a trailblazer for Black women in the sprints and relays. Competing in the 1940s and 1950s, she was a key member of the U.S. women’s sprinting team. In fact, she led them to gold in the 4×100 meter relay at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. She also earned silver in the 100 meters at the same games, solidifying her place as one of the most accomplished sprinters of her era.
Her success only continued after the Olympics, with Starr also winning multiple national titles in the 100 meters and the 4×100 meter relay. As one of the first Black women to achieve such high levels of success in track, Mae Faggs Starr played a critical role in opening doors for Black female athletes in the sprinting events. Her accomplishments continue to inspire future generations of sprinters.
Wyomia Tyus
When it comes to iconic, there’s no one touching Wyomia Tyus’ legacy. She etched her name in Olympic history by becoming the first woman to win back-to-back gold medals in the 100 meters at the 1964 and 1968 Olympic Games. Her victory in the 1968 Olympics was huge, as she was part of the iconic black power salute, a silent protest during the medal ceremony that spotlighted racial inequalities in the United States.
Tyus was not only a talented sprinter but also a fierce advocate for racial and social justice. Her contributions went far beyond her athletic achievements. She showed the world that the fight for equality was not just a political issue, but a global one. Her accomplishments and activism made her one of the most significant figures in the history of Olympic track and field.
Florence Griffith Joyner
Florence Griffith Joyner, also known as, “Flo Jo,” was an icon of both speed and style in the 1980s. Her mesmerizing performances in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4×100 meter relay at the 1988 Seoul Olympics left the world in awe. Her two gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters, along with a silver in the 4×100 meter relay, solidified her place as one of the most important sprinters of all time.
Beyond her athletic ability, Flo Jo was known for her bold fashion, wearing one-legged racing suits and long acrylics. She soon became a cultural phenomenon, and her speed, style, and grace made her one of the most recognizable athletes of her era. With world records in both the 100 meters and 200 meters that still stand today, Griffith Joyner’s legacy remains untouchable.
Allyson Felix
Closer to modern times, Allyson Felix serves as one of the most decorated track and field athletes in history. With six Olympic gold medals and three silver medals, Felix’s career spans over four Olympic Games, beginning in 2004 and extending all the way to 2020. Specializing in the 200 meters, 400 meters, and 4×100 meter relay, Felix has earned a place in history as the most successful U.S. female track and field Olympian of all time.
Her dedication and longevity in the sport align with her commitment to social change. In 2018, she became a vocal advocate for maternal health after experiencing complications during childbirth. Her activism has helped highlight important issues affecting women and mothers, and she has used her platform to fight for gender equality, especially in the sports world. Felix’s influence both on and off the track solidifies her as one of the greatest athletes and advocates of her generation.
Sha’Carri Richardson
Black women are still making history today, and they’re doing it in style. Sha’Carri Richardson represents the next generation of track and field athletes making their mark in both athletics and culture. Known for her vibrancy and unapologetic confidence, Richardson burst onto the scene in 2021 with a record-breaking performance in the 100 meters. Her blazing 10.72-second run in the 100 meters, one of the fastest times in history, made her an instant star.
While Richardson’s rise has not been without controversy, her resilience and boldness have made her an important figure in the track and field world. She has used her platform to speak openly about mental health, the challenges of being a Black woman in sports, and her determination to push through adversity. With bright her and bold nails, Richardson’s impact is only beginning to unfold.