Marise Chamberlain. This has been a name that the track and field world relates to as a prime example of woman empowerment. At a time when women had to fight for their rights to run at major events, Chamberlain decided to dominate the proceedings. Hailing from South Brighton, Chamberlain ranked among the only four women to have conquered multiple records on the track. 

The 88-year-old cherished the world records in 1500m, 440 yards, and the 400m. Well, the entire track and field community rose up in admiration back then, looking at the daunting challenges that Chamberlain conquered. Cut to 2024, and the track world will once again rise to pay its respects to the legendary runner. But this time, Chamberlain would be lying peacefully inside her coffin after passing away on November 5. 

According to a report from the Olympic champion’s daughter, Louise Stalker, Chamberlain passed away ‘quietly and peacefully’ in Christchurch on Tuesday. Things started way back when Chamberlain was just a child. Inclined towards running, the Olympic champion felt free like the wind while running. But even then, Chamberlain had not decided fully whether she wanted to take up athletics as a profession. This is when her father stepped in and gave her the much-needed push.

Recalling the incident, Chamberlain stated in an interview, “And then one day my father said to me, ‘Are you going to do athletics anymore?’ And I said, ‘Oh, I don’t think so…’ He said, ‘Oh, that’s a shame.’ I said, ‘Why?’ And he said, ‘Well, you’ve been given a talent.’ And he said, ‘And if I was given the talent that I know that you’ve got, I would do something about it.’” He also gave her a valuable lesson about how we all have to work hard while striving towards our goals. This was enough for little Marise to get going.

Specializing in the 400m, the New Zealander was ranked number 1 as the 1960 Rome Olympics approached. Unfortunately, the category was not yet included in the games, and thus, Chamberlain was deprived of a possible gold medal. As a matter of fact, this was not the only instance when she was tricked out of medal contention. Coached by the legendary Valdy Briedis, Chamberlain smashed the qualifying time twice in the 800m category. Unfortunately, the selectors, for some unknown reason, decided to ignore the champion athlete. However, being the raging fire that Chamberlain was, her talent could not be kept behind the curtains for long. 

Participating in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Chamberlain made her mark and won the Olympic bronze medal. This was a historic feat, as the 88-year-old remains the only female Olympic medal winner in track from New Zealand to date. And remember, she achieved all this while having a full-time job as a typist in Christchurch. After her work, the pioneering woman would train at the South Brighton sand dunes or at the base of her Technical Club in Ensors Road. While things got hard and foggy, Chamberlain relied on the lights from the train to Lyttelton to track her steps during her practice. Thus, the passing of such an incredible athlete surely had the track and field realm in mourning, and netizens took to social media to pay their respects. 

Marise Chamberlain will be remembered by fans 

The sudden yet peaceful demise of Marise Chamberlain at the age of 88 prompted an outpouring of tributes. Her significant achievements in track and field have inspired generations. And an outpouring of collective emotion filled the comment section of the Instagram post.

Marise Chamberlain wrote her name in history with her groundbreaking achievements at a time when women faced significant barriers in sports. As a female athlete, she overcame gender restrictions. Chamberlain also set records in events like the 400m and 1500m, earned an Olympic bronze in 1964, and became New Zealand’s only female Olympic track medalist. Reflecting on her story, one fan commented, “The definition of trailblazer 😢🖤🌿,” referring to the late athlete as the trailblazer.

Acknowledging Marise Chamberlain’s legacy as a trailblazer in women’s athletics, one Instagram user expressed respect and admiration towards the athlete. “RIP to this legend 🕊️,” the user added in the comment section. Despite facing barriers, Chamberlain’s dedication to her sport led her to break multiple records. 

Chamberlain was known as a pioneer for women in athletics for all the right reasons. One netizen’s words reflected the sorrow that has shrouded the athletic realm surrounding Marise Chamberlain’s passing. Their comment read, “Aww really sad news 😞 Such a phenomenal woman!!! Her legacy will live on!! ❤️”. Overcoming societal biases, balancing a full-time job, and then dedicating hours to prepare for the competition truly builds her legacy as one of the most inspiring figures. 

The legacy that Marise built through her remarkable accomplishments in the 400m and 800m events will endure in the track and field community. Showing respect and expressing admiration, another commenter shared, “What an incredible women ❤️.” Her trailblazing thoughts and mental prowess to passionately follow the path she desires amid all issues truly made her incredible!

While such a piece of heartbreaking news will leave every track enthusiast sorrowful, the sad demise of Marise Chamberlain would deeply affect her family. As they deal with the sorrowful event, fans and netizens are trying to shower love and support towards Chamberlain’s family and relatives. “What an amazing lady. Sending condolences to her family.❤️…,” commented a netizen, echoing the thoughts of several other track enthusiasts.

Thus, from being barely able to have her meals after coming back from training at 9 p.m. to becoming a legend, the story of Marise Chamberlain is surely one of those moments that would be etched into the track and field folklore forever.