Evelyne Hall

Evelyne Hall, born on September 10, 1909, was a distinguished American hurdler who made her mark in the world of athletics during the early 20th century. She showcased her exceptional talent by winning the AAU outdoor title in the 80 meters in 1930, followed by an impressive series of indoor victories in the 50 meters in 1931, 1933, and 1935.

Her most notable achievement came at the 1932 Olympics, where she earned a silver medal in the 80 meters. This race was particularly memorable as Hall finished with a time of eleven point seven seconds, a performance that equaled the world record set by her competitor, Mildred Didrikson, in a highly debated finish.

Despite her success, Hall faced challenges in her athletic career, notably placing fourth at the 1936 U.S. Olympic Trials, which meant she did not qualify for the Olympics that year. After retiring from competitive athletics, she transitioned into coaching and physical education, playing a pivotal role in preparing the first American women's athletics team for the 1951 Pan American Games.

In addition to her coaching, Hall served as the head of the U.S. Olympic women's track and field committee for several years and worked as a supervisor for the Glendale Parks and Recreation department. In a reflective interview on November 11, 1991, at the age of eighty-two, she claimed to be the 'oldest living American Olympic medalist,' a testament to her enduring legacy in the sport.