Lashinda Demus

Lashinda Demus, born on March 10, 1983, is a retired American hurdler renowned for her exceptional talent in the 400 meter hurdles. She made history in 2011 by becoming the world champion in this event, and in 2012, she achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Olympic gold medal, marking her as the first woman from the United States to secure the Olympic title in the 400 m hurdles.

Demus set her personal best time of 52.47 seconds in Daegu, South Korea, on September 1, 2011. This outstanding performance not only established her as one of the fastest women in history but also set the American record at that time. As of December 2022, she ranks as the seventh-fastest woman ever in the 400 m hurdles.

Throughout her illustrious career, Demus has claimed the title of national champion five times in the 400 m hurdles. Additionally, she has excelled at the collegiate level, winning four NCAA championships across various events, including the 400 m hurdles, 400 m indoors, and the 4 × 400 m relay both indoors and outdoors.