flojo

FloJo is the nickname of Florence Griffith Joyner, an American sprinter who is widely regarded as one of the greatest female track athletes. She set world records in the 100 meters and 200 meters that remained benchmarks for decades and became a defining figure in the sport.

Born in Los Angeles on December 14, 1959, Griffith Joyner attended California State University, Los Angeles, where she competed in track. She rose to prominence in the late 1980s and achieved a peak at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, where she won three gold medals and one silver. She claimed Olympic golds in the 100 meters and 200 meters, and contributed to the United States’ success in relays. Her 100 meters world record of 10.49 seconds and her 200 meters world record of 21.34 seconds were both set in 1988 and are still cited among the sport’s top performances.

Griffith Joyner retired from competition after the 1988 season. She married Olympic long jumper Al Joyner in 1987. She died on September 21, 1998, at the age of 38 in California, reportedly from an epileptic seizure.

Her legacy endures in track and field history through her record times, Olympic achievements, and influence on sprinting and women’s athletics. She has been inducted into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame and the United States Track and Field Hall of Fame, among other honors, and her records have inspired generations of athletes.