Martha Watson

Event: Long Jump

Inducted to Hall of Fame: 1987

Martha was regarded as America's premier long jumper in the 1960s and early 1970s. She was a member of four Olympic teams ('64, '68, '72 and '76) and broke the American record three times.

Martha also was an outstanding sprinter, and ran legs for the U.S. 4x100m relay at the 1972 and 1976 Olympics. Her relay team won a gold medal (42.90A) at the 1975 Pan-Am Games. At that competition, Martha also claimed a silver medal in the long jump.

Martha won four Relays' titles. The meet record that she set (21-5 3/4) when winning her first title stood for ten years until it was broken by Carol Lewis.

Martha now lives in Las Vegas, where she is pursuing a career in theater -- and receiving great reviews.

Born: 1946

College: Tennessee State University

• 1972: 1st, 21-5 3/4 (6.54m)
• 1973: 1st, 19-8 (5.99m)
• 1974: 1st, 20-3 3/4 (6.19m)
• 1976: 1st, 20-2 1/4 (6.15m)

• PR: 21-7 1/2 (6.59)
• Broke/tied American Record 3 times:
  • 1972: 21-6 (6.55m) [tied record]
  • 1973: 21-7 1/4 (6.58m)
  • 1974: 21-7 1/2 (6.59m)
• U.S. National Champion:
  • 1973: 21-4 3/4
  • 1974: 21-3 1/2
  • 1975: 21-3