Jarmila Kratochvílová

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Kratochvílová's 800-meter world record stands as the longest-running record in athletics history, a feat unmatched by any other runner. Her double world championship victory in 1983, at the age of 32, remains a remarkable achievement. She also held the 400-meter world record and the indoor 400-meter world record for decades, showcasing her extraordinary versatility and speed.

Jarmila Kratochvílová receiving an award

AwardsKratochvílová's competitive achievements include an Olympic silver medal in the 400 meters (1980), two World Championship gold medals (400m and 800m, 1983), and a World Championship silver in the 4×400 relay (1983). Her world records have earned her lasting recognition as one of the sport's all-time greats.

Honours & Distinctions

World Record Holder

World Athletics·1983

800 meters, 1:53.28, still current

World Record Holder

World Athletics·1983

400 meters, 47.99, stood for two years

World Indoor Record Holder

World Athletics·1982

400 meters, 49.59, stood for 41 years

Rankings & Lists

Longest-standing world record in athletics

World Athletics·2026

Records & Feats

Longest-standing world record in athletics history

Historic First·1983

Her 800m time of 1:53.28 has been the world record since 1983, the oldest in the sport.

Only woman to win 400m and 800m double at World Championships

Career Milestone·1983

Won both events at the 1983 World Championships, a feat not repeated since.

Held Czech 100m record for 45 years

Career Milestone·1981

Her national record stood from 1981 until 2026, when it was broken.