 |
Helen StephensAmerican athlete
Date of Birth: 03.02.1918
Country:  USA |
Content:
Biography of Helen Stephens
Helen Herring Stephens was an American athlete who became a two-time Olympic champion in 1936. She was born on February 3, 1918, in Fulton, Missouri. Known as the "Fulton Flash," Stephens was a serious competitor in sprint events and never lost a race throughout her entire career. She also excelled in shot put and discus throw, winning national titles in both disciplines.
Olympic Success
At the age of eighteen, Stephens was selected to represent the United States at the 1936 Summer Olympics. In the final of the 100-meter dash, she defeated the defending champion and world record holder, Stanisława Walasiewicz, also known as Stella Walsh, from Poland. Interestingly, it was later revealed that Walasiewicz was an intersex individual, possessing both male and female characteristics. Stephens broke the world record by 11.5 seconds during the Olympics, but the achievement was not recognized due to a strong tailwind.
In addition to her individual success, Stephens played a crucial role in the 4 x 100-meter relay. The German team, which was a strong contender for the gold medal, withdrew from the race, and Stephens helped the American team secure the victory.
Life After Athletics
After the Olympics, Stephens transitioned to professional baseball and softball. She attended William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri. From 1938 to 1952, she owned and managed her own semi-professional basketball team. Stephens also worked in the Aeronautical Chart and Information Service, later known as the Defense Mapping Agency, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Stephens passed away at the age of 76 in St. Louis. During the 1936 Olympics, there were rumors that Stephens and her competitor, Stella Walsh, were actually men. The Olympic Committee conducted a physical examination, which confirmed that Stephens was indeed a female athlete.
