Merlene Ottey
DOB and Place of Birth:
May 10, 1960 – Hanover
"There is no discussion of Jamaican sprinters without mentioning the women, and there is no conversation without reference to the majesty of Merlene Ottey" (Dwight Geddes). The world indoor record holder for the 200M (21.87sec), and record holder for the most World Championship medals in individual events, at 10. Jamaica's consummate ambassador, she represented her country with class, dignity and grace from 1979 to 2000. She competed in 7 Olympic games from 1980 to 2004. She won numerous medals, 9 Olympic, 14 World Championships, 7 World Indoors, 5 Commonwealth and 2 Pan American medals. "Longevity, consistency, unparalleled greatness and the standard for all that followed, that is Ottey’s legacy" (Dwight Geddes).
