Born: 1991 (Monnickendam, Netherlands)
Biography:
Marlou van Rhijn (Dutch pronunciation: [mrlu vn rin]) is a retired professional Dutch former professional sprint runner. Born on October 22, 1991, in Monnickendam, Netherlands, Marlou van Rhijn is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished athletes in the field of Paralympic athletics.
Throughout her career, van Rhijn has faced and overcome numerous obstacles. She was born without lower legs, a condition that would have deterred many from pursuing a career in sports. However, her determination and tenacity proved to be stronger than any physical limitations she may have had.
Prior to her transition to sprinting, van Rhijn was an accomplished swimmer. Until 2009, she represented the national team for swimmers with disabilities and competed in several World and European championships. She set multiple Dutch national records in the S9 class, specializing in the 50 and 100-meter freestyle events. However, by 2010, van Rhijn experienced a lack of motivation, prompting her to explore new opportunities in athletics.
In 2010, van Rhijn made the switch to athletics after being approached by Guido Bonsen, the coach of the Dutch Parathletics Team. Impressed by her natural talent, van Rhijn joined the Koninklijke Nederlandse Atletiek Unie’s Dutch Parathletics Team. Despite being classified as T43, she competed in the T44 class for the 100 and 200-meter events.
Her talent and incredible speed quickly became apparent, as she qualified for the 2012 Summer Paralympics in May 2012. Competing at the Stadio Olimpico, van Rhijn captured the attention of the world with her extraordinary performances. Throughout her career, she became the world record holder for T43 in the 100 and 200-meter events, showcasing her dominance in her chosen discipline.
Not only did van Rhijn excel on the track, but she also made an impact off the field. In recognition of her outstanding sporting achievements, she was invested as a Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau. This prestigious honor represented the Netherlands’ appreciation for her contributions to the sporting world.
Marlou van Rhijn’s impact extends far beyond her athletic achievements. With her unwavering determination, she has become an inspiration to countless individuals around the world. Her ability to overcome adversity and excel in her chosen field showcases the power of resilience and the human spirit.
In June 2021, van Rhijn announced her retirement from professional sprint running, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. Her incredible accomplishments, both on and off the track, have left an indelible mark on the world of athletics and serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
Awards:
– Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau