JOAN’S GOLDS
The 1984 Olympic Games, staged in Los Angeles, were spectacular for many reasons (including that man flying in a space suit who kicked off the opening ceremony), but for 50 women, from 28 different countries, it was their first chance to show the world how capable they were, despite the soaring August heat on the day. A chance to show the world the marathon distance wasn’t too long and wouldn’t cause gynaecological damage, a belief that had perpetuated up until the 1970s.