Today in History

July 16, 1988
Fast Track
Florence Griffith Joyner (nicknamed FloJo), breaks Evelyn Ashford's world record in the women's 100 meter sprint in the 1988 Olympic trials, crossing the finish line in 10.49 seconds. Known for her flamboyant-track-and field costumes as well as her speed, Griffith Joyner later takes gold in the 100-meter and-200-meter races and in the 4 x 100-meter relay at that year's Olympic games in Seoul, Korea. In 1998 Griffith-Joyner dies suddenly at age 38. An investigation determines the track-and-field star died in her sleep of asphyxiation during an epileptic seizure. Her 100 meter record still stands.



Today's Feature History Article

Fallen Star

When Mary Decker crashed to the ground at the Los Angeles Olympics 20 years ago this month, a young photographer was there to catch the anguish




 



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