Ottey-Page, Merlene (1960—)

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Ottey-Page, Merlene (1960—)

Jamaican sprinter. Name variations: Merlene Ottey. Born Merlene Ottey on May 10, 1960, in Jamaica; attended the University of Nebraska; married Nat Page (an American high jumper-hurdler), in 1984.

As of 1999, Jamaican sprinter Merlene Ottey-Page had won more World championship medals (14) than any other athlete, male or female. She also won 34 medals in major championships. Her victories include the 1982 NCAA championship in the 100-meter sprint, and the 1982 Commonwealth Games gold medal in the 200-meter. Ottey won the bronze medal in the 200-meter run at both the Moscow Olympics in 1980 and the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984, where she also won the bronze in the 100-meter run. At age 39, Ottey continued to compete against championship-caliber sprinters 15 years younger.

Daniel E. Brannen , Jr., freelance writer, York, Pennsylvania

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Ottey-Page, Merlene (1960—)

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