Read Along or Enhanced eBook: When doctors told her parents that she may never walk again, no one could have imagined that Wilma Rudolph would grow up to become the world’s fastest woman. This awe-inspiring book shows how, with grace, perseverance, and dedication, young Wilma used her inner strength to overcome physical disabilities caused by polio to win three gold medals for the USA in track and field at the 1960 Olympics. A sports superstar and an icon worldwide, her legacy continues to inspire youth and African-American communities today.

A biography of the woman who overcame crippling polio as a child to become the first woman to win three gold medals in track in a single Olympics.

In 1946, six-year-old Wilma Rudolph dreamed of walking and playing like other children, but a sickness called polio had damaged her left leg. Wilma spent hours each week doing painful exercises at a hospital for African American patients. The rest of the time, she was forced to wear a heavy and cumbersome leg-brace. Still, Wilma never gave up. She knew she could walk again, and if she could walk, maybe she could run. Author Victoria Sherrow tells how Wilma Rudolph's determination led her to the 1956 and 1960 Olympics where she gained fame as a champion runner. Larry Johnson's rich illustrations help to capture this true story of heroic strength and fearlessness.

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"Wilma Rudolph wanted to run and jump like other children. But she had a serious disease that kept her leg from growing well. She did not give up and one day she became a big star winning Olympic gold medals."--

Legendary Athletes introduces readers to the people who have made significant impacts both athletically and socially. Wilma Rudolph: Track & Field Inspiration highlights Wilma Rudolph's childhood and rise to fame. Career highlights, battles along the way, and humanitarian contributions are also discussed. The track & field inspiration's lasting legacy is told through informative sidebars, captivating photos, and engaging text. SportsZone is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.

"Engaging text and fun illustrations tell the story of Wilma Rudolph's childhood"--]cProvided by publisher.