At TrackGirlz, we believe in the power of sport to transform lives. Our core values—Boldness, Resilience, Authenticity, Vision, Excellence, Unity, and Poise—are the foundation of everything we do, from creating opportunities in track and field to supporting each girl’s journey. These values are reflected in the trailblazing women who came before us—athletes like Wyomia Tyus, who broke barriers and redefined what is possible for female athletes. Through our TrailblazHER series, we honor her legacy and continue the fight to ensure that every girl, no matter her background, has the chance to run toward her dreams.
Rising to the Top
Born in 1945 in Griffin, Georgia, Wyomia Tyus grew up in the segregated South, where opportunities for Black athletes—especially women—were limited. However, her talent on the track was undeniable. She was recruited by legendary coach Ed Temple to Tennessee State University’s famed Tigerbelles program, where she trained alongside some of the fastest women in the world.
At just 19 years old, Tyus made her Olympic debut at the 1964 Tokyo Games, setting a new Olympic record to win gold in the 100m. She also took home silver in the 4x100m relay.
Making History in Mexico City
Four years later, Tyus returned to the Olympics in Mexico City (1968) to defend her 100m title. Despite the pressure, she delivered a dominant performance, breaking the world record in the final to win her second consecutive gold. With that victory, she became the first athlete in history to win back-to-back Olympic titles in the 100m.
Before her race, she was captured dancing behind the starting blocks, later revealing that she was doing the “Tighten Up” dance to stay relaxed and focused. She then ended her Olympic career with a final gold medal in the 4x100m relay, leading the USA to victory with a world record time.
Beyond the Track: Advocacy and Legacy
Wyomia Tyus wasn’t just a champion—she was a quiet activist who used her success to advocate for equality. During the 1968 Olympics, she dedicated her gold medal to Tommie Smith and John Carlos, who famously raised their fists in protest on the podium. She later became an advocate for gender equity in sports, pushing for more opportunities for female athletes.
After retiring from competition, Tyus devoted herself to coaching and advocacy. She became a coach at Beverly Hills High School, a founding member of the Women’s Sports Foundation, and a strong advocate for gender and racial equality in sports.
Her impact was recognized in many ways:
1976 – Inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame
1980 – Inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame
1984 – Selected as one of eleven athletes to carry the Olympic flag at the Los Angeles Games
1985 – Inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame
1999 – Griffin, Georgia, honored her by naming Wyomia Tyus Olympic Park after her
2018 – Published Tigerbelle: The Wyomia Tyus Story, sharing her journey as a Black female athlete breaking barriers
Tyus’ Legacy and TrackGirlz
Wyomia Tyus proved that women—especially Black women—belong in sports. Her dominance, resilience, and advocacy helped pave the way for today’s sprint stars and inspired generations of athletes to follow in her footsteps.
At TrackGirlz, we strive to continue her legacy by ensuring that all girls—no matter their background—have the opportunity to chase their dreams through track and field. Tyus showed us that speed is more than just winning races—it’s about breaking barriers and making space for the next generation. Tyus proved that no goal is out of reach. Whether you’re taking your first steps on the track or aiming for your own Olympic moment, her story is a reminder that hard work and determination can change history. Keep pushing, keep believing, and remember— TRACKGIRLZ belong!
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