Pentathlon, Women

Irina Press had set her first world record in the pentathlon in 1959, but had had to wait until 1964 for this to become an Olympic event for women. She was highly versatile as she competed in the 80 metre hurdles and sprint relay at the 1960 Olympics and in 1964, competed in the hurdles and shot put, in addition to the pentathlon. Since 1959 she had set seven world records in the pentathlon and was the heavy favorite. The previous world record holder was Galina Bystrova (URS), who had been European Champion in 1958 and 1962. They were challenged by Britain’s Mary Rand, who two days before had won the long jump gold medal. After the first day, Press had a big lead on Bystrova, with Rand third. Though Rand made big efforts in the high jump and long jump, she could not catch Press, who won the first women’s pentathlon gold medal.