Raquel Martínez

Raquel Martínez was one of the top Chilean female track athletes in the 1930s, setting national records in the 100 metres sprint (12.6) and long jump (5.55, also a South American record), both in 1934. An all-round athlete, she trained with the Club Deportivo de la Universidad de Chile for her entire career and was coached by Carlos Strutz. There, she also set club records in 80 metres hurdles, javelin throw, shot put and discus throw in addition to the 100 metres sprint and long jump.

Selected for the athletics delegation to represent her country at the Berlin Olympic Games in 1936, Martínez became the first woman to compete for Chile when she competed in the 100 metres. She finished fifth in her heat, which was won by Marie Dollinger of Germany, affected by an illness that she developed on the long 11-day voyage to Germany from South America. Upon her return home, Martínez continued to compete in domestic track events into the 1940s. In the 1930s, she also played on the women’s basketball team at the Universidad de Chile, winning several championship titles from 1932–35 and 1938–29. She lived in Santiago, and was buried there upon her death in 1987.

Personal Best: 100 – 12.6 (1934).