Lula Hymes Glenn facts for kids
Lula Hymes Glenn (1917-2016) was an amazing American track and field athlete. She was known as one of the fastest women in the world during her time. In 1939, she even tied the world record for the 100-meter dash! This means she ran 100 meters as fast as anyone ever had at that point.
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About Lula Hymes Glenn
Lula Hymes Glenn was a talented athlete who achieved great success. She was born in 1917 and lived a long life, passing away in 2016. Her story shows how dedication and skill can lead to incredible achievements.
Early Life and School
Lula Hymes was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1917. She went to Booker T. Washington High School. After high school, she received a special scholarship to attend the Tuskegee Institute. This scholarship was for her amazing talent in track and field.
A World-Class Runner
Lula Glenn quickly became a star athlete. In 1937, she won three gold medals in national competitions. This showed everyone how fast and skilled she was. Her biggest achievement came in 1939. She tied the world record for the 100-meter dash, finishing in just 11.5 seconds. This made her one of the fastest women on Earth. In 1940, a newspaper called the Atlanta Constitution even named her "America’s greatest girl track and field athlete." She competed alongside other famous Tuskegee athletes like Leila Perry Glover and Alice Coachman Davis.
Olympic Hopes and World War II
Because of her incredible college career, many people believed Lula Glenn would win a gold medal at the Olympics. She was expected to be a top contender for the 1940 games. However, the 1940 Olympics were cancelled because World War II had started. The 1944 games were also cancelled due to the war. By the time the Olympics returned in 1948, Lula Glenn decided not to compete.
Life as a Teacher and Hall of Famer
After graduating from the Tuskegee Institute, Lula Glenn became a teacher. She taught subjects like Home Economics and Physical Education. She helped many students learn important skills. In 1974, her amazing athletic achievements were recognized. She was inducted into the Tuskegee University Athletic Hall of Fame. This honor celebrates the best athletes from the university. Lula Glenn passed away in Auburn, Georgia in 2016.