Tennessee State's track and field coach Ed Temple spotted Wilma while playing basketball for her high school team. He asked her to join the summer training program and she did.
She continued to train with Temple's guidance through the rest of her time in high school.
Wilma rudolph fun facts for kids
At the age of 16 Wilma qualified for the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia. She was the U.S. team's youngest member, and won a bronze medal in the 4 x 100 meter relay, along with Margaret Matthews, Mae Faggs, and Isabelle Daniels.
Wilma Rudolph enrolled at Tennessee State in 1958, enabling her to continue having Temple as her coach.
Wilma competed at the 1959 Pan American Games and won a silver medal in the 100 meter individual event.
She also won gold at the 4 x 100 meter relay.
Wilma rudolph fun facts
Wilma rudolph fun facts for kids
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When was wilma rudolph born
Wilma rudolph achievements
In 1959 Wilma Rudolph won the 100 meter title at the AAU and was able to maintain her title for four years. She also won three indoor AAU titles throughout her athletic career.