Jackie Joyner-Kersee

thumb|Jackie Joyner-Kersee in 2019 Jacqueline Joyner-Kersee (born March 3, 1962) is an American former track and field athlete who competed in both the heptathlon and long jump. She won three gold, one silver, and two bronze Olympic medals at four different Olympic Games. Joyner-Kersee was also a four-time gold medalist (twice each in heptathlon and long jump) at the world championships. Since 1988, she has held the world record for heptathlon. Quotes "Joyner-Kersee recalls magic moments" (2001) "Joyner-Kersee recalls magic moments", World Athletics (April 25, 2001) I always wanted to be a long jumper, from Day One at UCLA, It was, `If we can ever find you a board, maybe. Then I jumped seven metres against USC in a dual meet. That stands out. I knew then that I could do it. It allowed me to go on and realize my dream. The bronze medal in 1996 stands out, too, I was injured but I never gave up on myself. I believed I could do it. I enjoy not being out there,When I was competing, I gave it my all. I know the anxiety. I know what they're going through. I'm very satisfied with where I am. I was a fierce competitor, always determined. I never doubted myself. I found a way to overcome when others thought it would be too much. I had a will to win and give my best. I wanted to make an impact beyond running fast and jumping far. External links Category:Track and field athletes Category:1962 births Category:Living people Category:Sportspeople from the United States Category:Women from the United States Category:Women in sports Category:African Americans Category:Olympic gold medalists Category:Women born in the 1960s Category:People from Illinois