Melissa Morrison-Howard facts for kids
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| Born | July 9, 1971 (age 53) Mooresville, North Carolina, U.S. |
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Melissa Morrison-Howard, born on July 9, 1971, is an American athlete. She is famous for being a hurdler, which means she runs over obstacles in races. Melissa won two bronze medals at the Olympic Games. She also earned a bronze medal at the 2003 World Indoor Championships.
During her college years, she was recognized as a top athlete. From 1992 to 1993, she was voted the Most Valuable Performer. As of 2020, she is one of the top six American scorers ever in the 100-meter hurdles race.
College Life and Early Career
Melissa graduated from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, in 1993. While at Appalachian State, her coach was John Weaver. She was a very successful college athlete.
She won 17 individual championships in the Southern Conference. In 1993, she was named an NCAA All-American. This honor recognized her skills in both the 55-meter and 100-meter hurdles.
Awards and Recognition
Melissa Morrison-Howard has received several important awards. In 2009, she was added to the Southern Conference Hall of Fame. This is a special honor for athletes who have achieved great things in their sport.
Appalachian State University also celebrated her achievements. In 2018, they gave her and other female athletes the Trailblazer Award. This award recognizes people who have paved the way for others.
After Athletics
After her successful career in track and field, Melissa chose a different path. She became a special education teacher. This shows her dedication to helping others.
Major Achievements
Melissa Morrison-Howard had a remarkable career in track and field. She competed in many important events around the world. Here are some of her key achievements:
- 1997: She won a gold medal at the USA Outdoor Championships in Indianapolis for the 100-meter hurdles. She also placed 5th at the World Indoor Championships in Paris.
- 1998: Melissa earned a silver medal at the Grand Prix Final in Moscow for the 100-meter hurdles. She also won a gold medal at the USA Indoor Championships for the 60-meter hurdles.
- 1999: She finished 6th at the World Indoor Championships in Maebashi, Japan.
- 2000: This was a big year for Melissa. She won a bronze medal at the Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia, for the 100-meter hurdles. She also placed 4th at the Grand Prix Final in Doha.
- 2002: She won another gold medal at the USA Indoor Championships for the 60-meter hurdles. She also placed 7th at the Grand Prix Final in Paris.
- 2003: Melissa won a bronze medal at the World Indoor Championships in Birmingham, England, for the 60-meter hurdles. She also placed 6th at the World Athletics Final in Monaco.
- 2004: She won her second bronze medal at the Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, for the 100-meter hurdles.
