10-time world record holder and Olympic gold medalist sprinter dead at age 72
A sprinter who dominated women’s athletics for two decades, winning seven Olympic medals, has died at the age of 72.
Irena Szewinska’s husband and former coach, Janusz Szewinski, said she died shortly before midnight Friday in a Warsaw hospital after a battle with cancer.
In its reports, the Polish news agency PAP on Saturday described her as the most famous athlete in Polish sports history.
Polish President Andrzej Duda remembered her as the “First Lady of Polish Sport,” saying her death was “a great loss and great sadness.”
Quote from IOC President Thomas Bach on the death of Irena Szewinska, IOC Member in Poland: pic.twitter.com/k9YlWhT4r8
— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) June 30, 2018
Szewinska competed in five Olympics, winning gold medals in the 400-meter relay in 1964, in the 200 meters in 1968 and in the 400 meters in 1976.
She was a 10-time world record holder in the 100-, 200- and 400-meter races.
She was a true inspiration and known for her humility, kindness and generosity.
Our thoughts are with her family during this time of grieving.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Truth and Accuracy
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.
Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. Advertise Today.
