Florence Griffith Joyner, “Flo Jo,” as she was affectionately nicknamed, was born on December 21, 1959 in Los Angeles, California. Florence Joyner, track and field star, was a medalist during the 1988 Olympic Games held in Seoul, Korea. She captured three gold (100 meter, 200 meter and 400 meter relay) and one silver medal (1600 meter relay). She gained the nickname “Flo Jo” because of her eye-catching appearance, which included six-inch long fingernails and slinky running outfits. Florence set records in the 100 and 200-meter events, which remain unbroken today. Thus, she became known as the world’s fastest woman. Unfortunately, Florence Joyner died of a heart attack at the young age of only 38, leaving behind a husband and daughter.
Sources for additional information:
Florence Griffith Joyner Homepage: http://www.florencegriffithjoyner.com
People of the Century: Florence Griffith Joyner: http://www.sacbee.com/static/archive/news/projects/people_of_century/sports/griffith.html
