Tidye Pickett facts for kids
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Tidye Pickett (November 3, 1914 – November 17, 1986) was an amazing American track and field athlete. She made history by becoming the first African-American woman to compete in the Olympic Games. This happened when she represented the United States in the 80-meter hurdles at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. Her journey, along with other Black American athletes from the 1936 Olympics, was featured in the 2016 film Olympic Pride, American Prejudice.
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About Tidye Pickett
Tidye Pickett was born in Chicago, Illinois, on November 3, 1914. Her mother, Sarah Pickett, worked as a factory clerk. Her father, Louis Pickett, was a foundry foreman. Tidye grew up in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago.
Her Start in Running
Tidye began running when she was still a schoolgirl. She competed in local track meets, where her talent was noticed. A famous long jumper named John Brooks saw her potential and started coaching her.
Olympic Dreams Begin in 1932
In 1932, Tidye Pickett competed in the United States Olympic Trials. She ran in the 100-meter dash, winning her first race. She then placed third in her semi-final, which helped her reach the final. In the final race, she finished sixth.
Even though she didn't win a medal, Tidye was chosen for the American Olympic team. She was part of an eight-woman group for the 4 × 100 meter relay. Tidye and another athlete, Louise Stokes, were the first African-American women ever selected for the Olympic Games. However, neither Tidye nor Louise were chosen to run in the final four-woman relay team at the Olympics.
Making History in 1936
Tidye continued to train and compete. In 1934, she was part of a team that set a new, unofficial world record in the 4 × 110 yard relay.
At the 1936 United States Olympic Trials, Tidye competed in the 80-meter hurdles. She finished second, which earned her a spot on the Olympic team for the Berlin Games.
At the 1936 Olympics, Tidye Pickett made history. She became the first African-American woman to compete in the Olympic Games. She successfully passed the first round of races. However, in the semi-finals, she fell at the second hurdle and got injured, which ended her competition. She was also the first athlete from Illinois State University to compete in the Olympics.
Life After the Olympics
After her running career, Tidye Pickett became a schoolteacher. She worked as a principal at an elementary school in East Chicago Heights. She retired from teaching in 1980. When she retired, the school was renamed in her honor. Tidye Pickett passed away in Chicago Heights, Illinois, on November 17, 1986.
