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Gail Devers
- Two-time Olympic 100m champion (1992, 1996), only the second woman to win the event in consecutively; gold medalist in 4x100m relay (1996)
- Four-time Olympian (1992-2004)
- Three-time World 100m hurdles champion (1993, 1995, 1999)
- Nine-time U.S. 100m hurdles champion
- Considered the greatest combination sprinter/hurdler in history
- Shocked many at the 1992 Olympic Games by winning the 100m, but fell over the final hurdle in 100m hurdles while leading and finished fifth
- Won the 100m dash and 100m hurdles at the 1993 Worlds, a feat that hadn’t been achieved in 45 years
- Pulled up in the 100m hurdles semifinal at the 2000 Olympics, aggravating a previously injured hamstring
- Suffered from Graves’ disease, a debilitating chronic thyroid disorder, from 1988 to 1991 and was close to having her feet amputated until treatment and accurate diagnosis of the disease brought it under control
- Testified to Congress in 2000 about impact of her undiagnosed thyroid disease, as part of a Congressional investigation into ways to combat medical mistakes
- Won nine Pac-10 titles in two years of competition at UCLA
- Started the Gail Devers Foundation, compelling force of energy that inspires positive change within communities
- Earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology at UCLA
- Daughter of a Baptist minister
- Addicted to “I Love Lucy'” reruns
From disappointing athletic performances to overwhelming health crises, Devers has had her share of obstacles to overcome. And yet she has perservered to earn three Olympic gold medals. Devers maintains a positive attitude in the face of her many hurdles. “You can never give up or get down on yourself,” she says. “A true champion keeps his or her chin up and always takes life one race at a time. This is how I keep focused on my goals and racing toward my dreams.”
Related Links
Photo gallery: Profile: Gail Devers
Photo gallery: 2003 National Championships
Photo gallery: 2002 National Championships
Q&A;: Gail Devers on getting better with age, elusive gold
Official Web site: Gail Devers
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Height: 5’ 3
Born: 11/19/1966
Hometown: National City, Calif.
Resides: Lawrenceville, Ga.
Sport: Track & Field
Event: 100m, 100m hurdles
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