Javelin – Like Her

Lillian Copeland

Lillian Copeland, a trailblazing American track and field athlete, made history as the first American woman to win the discus throw at a modern Olympics. Her exceptional achievements in discus, javelin throwing, and shot put set numerous world records and inspired generations of female athletes. Despite facing discrimination and prejudice as a Jewish woman in the early 20th century, Copeland’s determination and resilience propelled her to break barriers and leave an indelible mark on women’s sports.

ChinaDiscus ThrowerJavelin

Wu Qing

Wu Qing, a Paralympic athlete from China, has left an indelible mark in the field of throwing events. With gold medals in javelin throw and discus throw at the 2008 Summer Paralympics, Wu’s exceptional talent and dedication have made her a source of inspiration for many. Her record-breaking performances and unwavering spirit have solidified her status as a dominant force in her classification, proving that physical disabilities are no obstacle to greatness.

New ZealandArcherDisabled

Eve Rimmer

Eva Marion “Eve” Rimmer, born in 1937 in Whanganui, New Zealand, became one of New Zealand’s greatest paraplegic athletes. Despite facing a life-altering accident at the age of fifteen, Eve’s indomitable spirit led her to become a world-renowned athlete. With an impressive collection of medals and accolades, Eve’s inspiring story continues to empower individuals with disabilities and serves as a reminder of the power of determination. She will be forever remembered as a pioneer in women’s sports, leaving behind an enduring legacy.

BulgariaDiscus ThrowerJavelin

Ivanka Koleva

Ivanka Koleva is a Paralympian track and field athlete from Bulgaria known for her remarkable achievements in throwing events. With numerous accolades and a career spanning over two decades, Koleva has become a role model for aspiring athletes. Her determination and talent have not only made her a successful athlete but also a groundbreaking figure in women’s sports history.

IndiaJavelinShot Putter

Deepa Malik

Deepa Malik, born on September 30, 1970, is a remarkable Indian athlete who has defied all odds to achieve greatness. She embarked on her sporting career at the age of 30, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams. Deepa holds the distinction of being the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Paralympic Games and has become an inspiration to millions around the world.

Sri LankaJavelin

Nadeeka Lakmali

Nadeeka Lakmali Bambarenda Liyanage, born in Elpitiya, Galle in 1981, is a talented Sri Lankan javelin thrower. She has represented Sri Lanka in various international competitions and has achieved remarkable success, including winning bronze at the Asian Athletics Championships and setting national records. Nadeeka’s dedication and consistent improvement have made her an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.

RussiaJavelinTrack & Field

Klavdiya Mayuchaya

Klavdiya Yakovlevna Mayuchaya (née Lapteva) was a legendary Soviet track and field athlete known for her remarkable contributions to the sport, particularly in the javelin throw. She became the first woman to throw the javelin beyond fifty meters and achieved numerous titles and championships throughout her career. Her determination and pioneering achievements continue to inspire female athletes and solidify her status as an icon in women’s history.

South AfricaDiscus ThrowerJavelin

Zanele Situ

Zanele Situ, born in 1971 in Kokstad, South Africa, overcame tremendous challenges to become a Paralympian athlete. Despite being paralyzed from the fourth vertebra down and relying on a wheelchair for mobility, Situ excelled in the javelin throw. She secured multiple gold and silver medals at the IPC Athletics World Championships and the Summer Paralympics, making history as the first female South African black athlete to win a Paralympic gold medal. Situ’s determination and resilience serve as an inspiration to many.

GreeceJavelin

Elina Tzengko

Elina Tzengko, born in September 2, 2002, is a Greek javelin thrower who has achieved remarkable success in the world of athletics. From a young age, she displayed immense talent and passion for javelin throwing. Throughout her career, Tzengko has secured numerous accolades, including a gold medal at the European Athletics Championships in 2022 and the prestigious European Athletics Rising Star award in 2022. Her extraordinary achievements make her a role model for aspiring athletes and a prominent figure in women’s history.

LatviaJavelin

Inese Jaunzeme

Inese Jaunzeme, born in 1932 in Latvia, was a prominent Latvian javelin thrower who made a significant impact on the sport. She rose through the ranks with dedication and hard work, becoming the Latvian champion in 1952. Her breakthrough came in 1956 when she set a new Olympic record and became the first Latvian Olympic champion. Beyond her athletic success, Jaunzeme pursued a career in medicine and continued to contribute to the Olympic community until her passing in 2011. Her legacy as a barrier-breaking athlete and inspiration to aspiring athletes, especially women, lives on.

PolandJavelin

Maria Kwaśniewska

Maria Jadwiga Kwaśniewska-Maleszewska was an accomplished athlete and resistance fighter during World War II. She won a bronze medal in the javelin throw at the 1936 Summer Olympics and was recognized by Adolf Hitler himself. Her courageous decision to join the Polish resistance movement during the war saved countless lives. Kwaśniewska’s bravery and resilience continue to inspire generations.

SpainJavelinJournalist

Ana María Martínez Sagi

Ana María Martínez Sagi was a Spanish poet, trade unionist, journalist, feminist, and athlete. She made significant contributions to various fields throughout her life. Born into a privileged family in Barcelona, she excelled in sports, becoming a national champion in javelin. Martínez Sagi also broke new ground in football, becoming the first female director of FC Barcelona. As a journalist, she advocated for social change and women’s suffrage, and her firsthand accounts during the Spanish Civil War gave a voice to the marginalized. Martínez Sagi’s resilience, determination, and commitment to social justice make her a remarkable figure in women’s history.

GermanyBlindDisabled

Martina Monika Willing

Martina Monika Willing is a celebrated Paralympic athlete from Germany known for her exceptional talent and resilience. Born on October 3, 1959, she has overcome tremendous obstacles as she competes in field events despite being both blind and paraplegic. Her inspiring journey has made her a true icon in the world of adaptive sports.

FijiDiscus ThrowerJavelin

Mereoni Vibose

Mereoni Vibose (26 April 1951 – 27 January 2018) was a Fijian female track and field athlete who excelled in the discus throw and javelin throw. Her remarkable career included setting national records and representing Fiji at international events such as the South Pacific Games and the World Championships in Athletics. She was inducted into the Fiji Sports Hall of Fame in 1998, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of athletics.

JapanJavelinLong Jumper

Kinue Hitomi

Kinue Hitomi, a remarkable Japanese track and field athlete, left an enduring legacy in the sports world during the 1920s and 1930s. She shattered records and became the first Japanese woman to win an Olympic medal. Hitomi’s incredible achievements not only showcased her unparalleled skill and resilience but also paved the way for future generations of female athletes.