Born: 1971
Cornelia Pfohl (born 23 July 1971) is a German archer who has made a significant impact on the sport through her achievements and determination. Throughout her career, she has competed in four consecutive Summer Olympic Games from 1992 to 2004, showcasing her talent and dedication on the international stage. Pfohl’s remarkable journey as an archer and her contributions to women’s history are a testament to her passion and perseverance.
Pfohl’s Olympic career began in 1992 when she made her debut at the Summer Olympics held in Barcelona. Competing in the women’s individual event, she finished forty-fourth overall, gaining valuable experience and setting the foundation for her future successes. Furthermore, she was also a vital member of the German team that participated in the women’s team competition, finishing in tenth place.
It was at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta where Pfohl’s talent truly shone. Participating in the women’s team event, she reached the final alongside her German teammates. In a tense competition, with Germany leading South Korea by a single point and nine arrows remaining, Pfohl unfortunately shot into the outermost ring of the target, scoring just one point. This resulted in South Korea taking the lead and winning their third consecutive team gold medal. Despite this heartbreaking moment, Pfohl’s performance demonstrated her ability to perform at the highest level and solidified her position as a top archer.
Pfohl’s determination and resilience were further highlighted at the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics. In an incredible display of strength, she competed in both events while pregnant with her first and second child, respectively. During the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Pfohl was in the early stages of pregnancy with her daughter Mara. Despite the challenges, she secured her second Olympic medal by winning bronze in the women’s team event. Additionally, she concluded the women’s individual event in twenty-fourth place.
Her qualification for the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens was unexpected, yet she embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. Despite being 30 weeks pregnant with her second child, Pfohl showcased her skill and determination once again. In the first round of elimination, she faced Marie-Pier Beaudet of Canada, ultimately defeating her with a score of 146–128 in the 18-arrow match. Pfohl’s journey came to an end in the round of 32 when she faced the 15th-ranked archer, Margarita Galinovskaya of Russia. Despite a valiant effort, Pfohl lost 158–156 in the regulation 18 arrows.
Pfohl’s achievements in archery have established her as a role model and inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly women. Her ability to compete at such a high level while overcoming personal challenges demonstrates the power of determination and perseverance. By breaking barriers and proving that pregnancy does not impede an athlete’s performance, Pfohl has made a significant impact on women’s history in the realm of sports. Her dedication and achievements have paved the way for other female athletes to challenge societal expectations and pursue their dreams.
Awards:
– 1996 Olympics: Silver Medal, Women’s Team Event
– 2000 Olympics: Bronze Medal, Women’s Team Event