Alice Coachman: The Trailblazer Of Women In Sports (1923-2014)

Alice Coachman was a remarkable athlete who made history in the world of sports. As the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal, her achievements paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her story is not just about athletic success but also about breaking barriers in a time when opportunities for women, especially women of color, were extremely limited.

Who Was Alice Coachman?

Alice Marie Coachman Davis was born on November 9, 1923, in Albany, Georgia. She grew up in a segregated society where access to sports and training facilities was often denied to Black athletes. Despite these challenges, Coachman’s talent shone through, and she became a beacon of hope for many aspiring athletes. Her participation in the 1948 Olympics in London marked a significant milestone in sports history.

At these Olympics, she leaped to a record-breaking height of 5 feet, 6 and 1/8 inches in the high jump finals, clinching her place as the first Black woman to earn an Olympic gold medal. Coachman’s victory not only highlighted her incredible skill but also symbolized a breakthrough for women and people of color in sports.

Quick Facts

Here are some important details about Alice Coachman:

• Full Name: Alice Marie Coachman Davis
• Born: November 9, 1923
• Birthplace: Albany, GA
• Died: July 14, 2014 (age 90)
• Astrological Sign: Scorpio

Early Years

Alice Coachman was the only daughter among ten siblings. Growing up in the segregated South, she faced numerous obstacles. Sports opportunities were scarce for African Americans, particularly women, which forced Coachman to be creative in her training methods. She often ran barefoot in fields and practiced her high jump using makeshift equipment.

Her talent was discovered during her time at Madison High School by Harry E. Lash, the boys' track coach, who recognized her potential and helped hone her skills. Coachman's dedication eventually earned her a scholarship to the Tuskegee Institute when she was just 16 years old. Before she even stepped foot in a classroom, Coachman had already set high school and college records in the Amateur Athlete Union (AAU) national championship.

Olympic Success

The long-awaited opportunity for Coachman to compete on an international stage finally arrived in 1948. Despite battling a back injury, she soared to victory in London, making history as the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal. This moment was not just a personal triumph but a message of resilience and strength for all women and athletes of color.

During the medal ceremony, King George VI presented her with the gold medal. Coachman expressed her surprise, saying, “I didn’t know I’d won. I was on my way to receive the medal and I saw my name on the board.” This moment underscored her humility and the genuine shock of achieving something monumental.

Post-Olympic Life

After her historic win, Alice Coachman returned to the United States and completed her college education at Albany State. Though she stepped away from competitive athletics, her influence continued to grow. In 1952, she became the first African American female athlete to sign an endorsement deal with Coca-Cola, showcasing her star power beyond the track.

Coachman didn’t stop there; she founded the Alice Coachman Track and Field Foundation, aimed at supporting young athletes and providing aid to retired Olympic veterans. Her legacy is not only captured in her athletic achievements but also in her commitment to future generations of athletes.

Death

Alice Coachman passed away on July 14, 2014, at the age of 90 in Georgia. In her later years, she faced health challenges, including a stroke that led to her admission to a nursing home. She left behind a rich legacy, including two children from her first marriage and the impact she made on the world of sports.

Quotes

• "I paved the way for all of them."
• "I didn’t know I’d won. I was on my way to receive the medal and I saw my name on the board. And, of course, I glanced over into the stands where my coach was and she was clapping her hands."

Alice Coachman’s journey from a young girl in segregated Georgia to a celebrated Olympic champion is nothing short of inspiring. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of breaking barriers in sports.