Jackie Joyner-Kersee
Jackie Joyner-Kersee is a legendary American track and field athlete, widely regarded as one of the greatest heptathletes of all time. Born in East St. Louis, Illinois, she has won numerous Olympic medals and set multiple world records in various track and field events. Off the track, she is dedicated to humanitarian work and empowering youth through sports.
Biography
| Name | Jackie Joyner-Kersee |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 3, 1962 |
| Achievements | Ranked among the all-time greatest athletes in the heptathlon and long jump, won three gold, one silver, and two bronze Olympic medals |
| Recognition | Sports Illustrated for Women voted her the Greatest Female Athlete of All-Time |
| Contributions | Served on the board of directors for USA Track & Field, active philanthropist in children’s education, racial equality, and women’s rights, founder of the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, collaborated with Comcast to create the Internet Essentials program |
| Challenges | Overcame severe asthma, inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2023 |
Early Life
Jackie Joyner-Kersee was born on March 3, 1962, in East St. Louis, Illinois. She was raised in a supportive and sports-loving family that encouraged her to pursue athletics from a young age. Throughout her childhood, Jackie showed immense talent in various sports and eventually found her passion in track and field. After honing her skills in high school, she moved to Los Angeles to attend college at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she continued to excel in track and field, setting numerous records and winning multiple accolades.
Family
| Family Member | Name | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Parents | Al Joyner (father) | Al Joyner was an Olympic long jumper and he played a significant role in coaching and guiding Jackie in her athletic career. |
| Mary Joyner (mother) | Mary Joyner was a nurse and a strong supporter of Jackie’s athletic pursuits, providing her with love and encouragement throughout her career. She also played a vital role in Jackie’s development as an athlete. | |
| Siblings | Al Joyner Jr. (brother) | Al Joyner Jr. is Jackie’s brother and he also became an accomplished athlete, specializing in the triple jump. He had a successful career and was a source of inspiration for Jackie. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | Around 145 lbs (66 kg) |
| Other Body Measurements | Not available |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Current Relationship Status:
Bob Kersee is also Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s coach and has played a significant role in her athletic career.
Previous Relationships:
| Name | Relationship Type |
|---|---|
| – | – |
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Jackie Joyner-Kersee became famous through her exceptional athletic prowess as a heptathlete and long jumper. She gained recognition for her impressive performances in various track and field events, particularly at the Olympic Games.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s career in athletics began at a young age, and she rose to prominence as one of the most successful female athletes in history. She is best known for her gold medal-winning performances in the heptathlon and long jump events at multiple Olympic Games. Her remarkable achievements and dedication to the sport have solidified her status as an icon in track and field.
Throughout her career, Jackie Joyner-Kersee has garnered numerous accolades and awards, including multiple Olympic gold medals, world championship titles, and recognition as one of the greatest athletes of all time. She has also been inducted into various sports halls of fame in honor of her outstanding contributions to the field of athletics.
Despite her illustrious career, Jackie Joyner-Kersee has not been involved in any major controversies. She has consistently demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship and professionalism both on and off the field, earning widespread respect and admiration from her peers and fans.
Faq
Jackie Joyner-Kersee is a retired American track and field athlete, ranked among the all-time greatest athletes in the heptathlon as well as long jump.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee is a six-time Olympic medalist, including three gold medals. She also held the world record in the heptathlon for over 12 years.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee was born on March 3, 1962, in East St. Louis, Illinois, United States.
While Jackie Joyner-Kersee is retired from professional competition, she remains active in promoting youth and amateur athletics through various foundation and charitable activities.
