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Marlou van Rhijn

Dutch Sprinter

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Team

Retired

DOB

October 22, 1991

Height / Weight

164 cm (5 ft 4 in) / 52 kg (114 lbs)

Achievements

Gold Medalist

Summary

Marlou van Rhijn is a Dutch professional sprinter, born on October 22, 1991, in Monnickendam, Netherlands. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest Paralympians of all time. Van Rhijn started her professional career in athletics after losing both her legs as a child. Known as the 'Blade Babe', she has won numerous individual awards, including Paralympic gold medals, and holds multiple records, such as the fastest 100m and 200m sprints in her class.

Off the track, Van Rhijn is also recognized for her advocacy work for disabled sports and her influence, inspiring millions worldwide.

Career

Early Career

  • Youth and Early Career: Van Rhijn was born and raised in Monnickendam and started her career in athletics at a young age, despite her disability. She made her international debut in 2012.

Paralympic Success

  • Early Success: Van Rhijn secured her first Paralympic medal, a silver, in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. She followed this up with a gold medal in the 200m sprint, setting a new world record in the process.

Continued Success

  • Record-breaking Career: Over the next few years, Van Rhijn continued to break records and win medals. She set new world records in the 100m and 200m sprints and won gold medals in both events at the 2013 and 2014 IPC Athletics World Championships. She also won a gold medal in the 100m sprint at the Rio 2016 Paralympics.
International Career

Netherlands National Team

  • Debut: Made her debut for the Netherlands in 2012.

Achievements:

  • Paralympic Games: Winner in 2012 and 2016.
  • IPC Athletics World Championships: Winner in 2013 and 2014.
  • Van Rhijn holds world records in the 100m and 200m sprints in her class.
Style of Play
  • Position: Primarily a sprinter, competing in the 100m and 200m events.
  • Skills: Known for her incredible speed, strength, and determination. Van Rhijn is celebrated for her versatility and resilience.
Personal Life
  • Philanthropy: Van Rhijn is involved in various charitable activities and has been an advocate for disabled sports, inspiring many around the world with her story.
Legacy
  • Marlou van Rhijn is celebrated not only for her extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for her determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Her impact on the sport and her status as an icon extend beyond the track, inspiring millions of fans around the world.
Awards and Recognition

Fastest 100m and 200m in Her Class:

  • World records in both events

Most Medals in Paralympic Sprint Events:

  • Multiple gold medals in the 100m and 200m sprints
References

Books

  • Unstoppable (2016): An autobiography by Marlou van Rhijn.

Websites

Articles

Interviews and Documentaries

  • Blade Babe (2016): Directed by Maria Visser. This documentary provides a detailed look at Van Rhijn’s life and career, featuring interviews with her family, friends, and colleagues.
  • ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Marlou van Rhijn, covering different aspects of her career. Available at: https://www.espn.com
Marlou van Rhijn image
Full name
Marlou van Rhijn
Born
1991-10-22
Place of birth
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Position(s)
Sprinter
Current team
Retired
Senior career
2012 - 2016 Paralympic Games
International career
2012 - 2016 Paralympic Games
Social Media
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