The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends from Tennessee State

The Tigerbelles is a book that tells the epic story of the 1960 Tennessee State University all-black womens track team, which found Olympic glory at the 1960 games in Rome. It explores the team's struggles and triumphs, as well as their drive to change the world's perception of what a group of young Black women in the Jim Crow south were capable of.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2024
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Tigerbelles is an enthralling tale that delves into the remarkable journey of the 1960 Tennessee State University all-black womens track team. Their remarkable achievement of securing Olympic glory at the 1960 games in Rome is the focal point of this captivating story. Author Edward Temple weaves an epic narrative that encompasses desire, success, and failure, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America. Through intimate storytelling, readers are granted a profound understanding of the individual struggles and triumphs of the team members, while also gaining insight into how their dreams emerged and solidified amidst the country's arduous struggle to leave the oppressive Jim Crow era behind.

Coach Edward Temple played a pivotal role in pushing each team member to their absolute limits, unveiling the untapped potential that they often failed to recognize within themselves. The elite group of talent assembled for the Tigerbelles included Wilma Rudolph, Barbara Jones, Lucinda Williams, Martha Hudson, Willye B. White, and Shirley Crowder. These remarkable women, once renowned worldwide, deserve to be remembered and celebrated for their contributions to the sport.

However, the team's pursuit of success extended beyond mere medals. Coach Temple and the Tigerbelles had a larger vision—to challenge the world's perception of what a group of young Black women in the Jim Crow south could achieve. Their determination and resilience were evident as they navigated the challenges of operating on a shoestring budget and competing on a dirt track. Despite the odds, they shared a common goal: to proudly represent the USA in Track and Field.

The Tigerbelles' story unfolds in a series of captivating chapters, beginning in Tennessee during the summer of 1960. From there, they embarked on a remarkable journey that took them through national meets in Texas, rigorous training in Kansas, media events in New York City, and ultimately to the Olympics in Rome in the early fall. The arc of their story is a testament to the power of perseverance and unwavering determination.

Based on memoirs and interviews with surviving team members, including Coach Temple, The Tigerbelles offers a firsthand account of an impossible dream coming true. It is a multi-layered inspirational tale that showcases the indomitable spirit of these women and their unwavering commitment to achieving greatness. Through their triumphs and setbacks, they not only inspired their fellow athletes but also left an indelible mark on the history of sports and society as a whole.

The Tigerbelles' legacy continues to resonate today, reminding us of the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that dreams can be realized against all odds, and that the human spirit is capable of extraordinary feats. As we reflect on their remarkable journey, let us be inspired by their unwavering determination and continue to strive for greatness in our own lives.

Weight: 531g
Dimension: 235 x 160 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493073887