Élodie Ouédraogo, Belgian sprinter

Meet Élodie Ouédraogo, a name synonymous with speed and determination in Belgian athletics. Born on February 27, 1981, in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, this retired Belgian sprinter, proudly of Burkinabé descent, carved out an illustrious career primarily specializing in the demanding 200 metres and 400 m hurdles events. Her exceptional talent and hard work culminated in a remarkable achievement: becoming an Olympic gold medalist, solidifying her place among Belgium's most celebrated athletes.

Early Life and Athletic Roots

Élodie Ouédraogo entered the world in the Belgian municipality of Saint-Josse-ten-Noode. Her heritage, rooted in Burkina Faso, adds another layer to her identity, connecting her to a broader cultural tapestry. From a young age, it became clear that Ouédraogo possessed a natural aptitude for track and field, embarking on a journey that would see her compete at the highest echelons of international sport.

A Career Defined by Speed and Hurdles

Throughout her impressive career, Élodie Ouédraogo became particularly renowned for her prowess in two challenging disciplines: the 200 metres sprint and the technical 400 m hurdles. These events demand a unique blend of explosive speed, endurance, and precise rhythm, all of which Ouédraogo mastered with considerable skill. Her dedication to these events saw her achieve significant milestones, including personal bests that stood as testament to her competitive spirit and athletic capability. The pinnacle of her career saw her achieve the coveted status of an Olympic gold medalist, a dream for any athlete, demonstrating her ability to perform under immense pressure on the world's biggest stage. It's moments like these that elevate an athlete's career from successful to truly legendary.

Setting Records and National Pride

Élodie Ouédraogo's name is firmly etched in the record books of Belgian athletics, not just for her Olympic triumph, but also for her impressive individual performances. Her personal best in the 200 metres stands at a swift 23.11 seconds, a time she achieved in July 2004 during a competition right in her home country, Brussels, much to the delight of local fans. When it came to the more technically demanding 400 m hurdles, she clocked an outstanding 55.20 seconds. This personal best was not just any time; it was achieved during the highly competitive atmosphere of the 2012 Summer Olympics, showcasing her ability to deliver her best when it mattered most. Her consistent excellence places her among the elite in Belgian track and field history.

Rankings Among Belgian Women

When measuring her against other top Belgian female sprinters, Élodie Ouédraogo consistently ranked among the fastest:

• In the 100 metres, her best time of 11.40 seconds placed her as the joint third-fastest Belgian woman, standing proudly alongside Nancy Callaerts and just behind the formidable speeds of Kim Gevaert and Olivia Borlée.
• For the 200 metres, a distance she specialized in, Ouédraogo ranked fourth overall among Belgian women, again following the remarkable performances of Gevaert, Borlée, and Hanna Mariën.
• Her dedication to the 400 m hurdles truly shone through, as her personal best positioned her as the second-fastest Belgian woman ever over that distance, a remarkable achievement only surpassed by Ann Mercken.

These rankings underscore her consistent presence at the top tier of Belgian athletics, facing and excelling against a generation of highly talented athletes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Élodie Ouédraogo

Who is Élodie Ouédraogo?

Élodie Ouédraogo is a retired Belgian sprinter of Burkinabé descent, widely recognized for her achievements in the 200 metres and 400 m hurdles, including being an Olympic gold medalist.

When and where was Élodie Ouédraogo born?

She was born on February 27, 1981, in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, Belgium.

What are Élodie Ouédraogo's main athletic specializations?

Her primary events were the 200 metres sprint and the 400 m hurdles.

Has Élodie Ouédraogo won an Olympic medal?

Yes, Élodie Ouédraogo is an Olympic gold medalist, a highlight of her distinguished career in track and field.

What are Élodie Ouédraogo's personal best times?

Her personal best for the 200 metres is 23.11 seconds (achieved in Brussels, July 2004), and for the 400 m hurdles, it is 55.20 seconds (set at the 2012 Summer Olympics).