Osleidys Menéndez

World Records: 71.54m Rethymno 01 Jul 2001

71.70m Helsinki 14 Aug 2005

Osleidys Menéndez Sáez (born November 14, 1979 in Martí) is a Cuban athlete competing in the javelin throw. She is a former Olympic champion, world champion, and world record holder. She has been described as the female "Jan Železný" of her times.

When winning the 2005 World Athletics Championships, Menéndez broke her own world record with a throw of 71.70 m. This record was broken by Olympic champion Barbora Špotáková in September 2008 with a throw of 72.28 m.

She was coached by former javelin thrower Dionisio Quintana. Under his guidance, Menéndez developed a successful career spanning thirteen years. Quintana threw the javelin competitively (1971 to 1987) with a 84.35 metres personal best (old model).

source: wikipedia