Mariya Sizyakova

Mariya Sizyakova was a Soviet all-round track and field athlete who competed in the pentathlon. Sizyakova initially started as a hurdler in the late 1950s before moving on the pentathlon, winning bronze at the 1959 Spartakiad of the Peoples of the USSR. During the 1960s she represented the Soviet national team, earning a place at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Sizyakova had a good start at the Games, placing sixth in the 80 metres hurdles, followed by seventh in the shot put. She continued to be consistent in both the high jump and long jump, but a poor run in the 200 metres pushed he down to 10th overall. Towards the end of her career she won bronze at the 1969 European Athletics Championships in Athina.

Sizyakova also worked as a coach whilst competing, where she trained youth athletes. In addition to being awarded medals for her service to sport, she was also made an honorary citizen of the city of Ivanovo in 1998.

Personal Best: Pen – 4941 (1967).