The IAAF was saddened to hear of the death of Colette Besson, who was the surprise winner of the Olympic 400m title in 1968 at the age of 22. In the final, in Mexico City, Britain's Lillian Board - the favourite for the gold - was way ahead of the rest of the field with just 100 m to go but with an amazing last sprint, Besson then moved up from fifth place to beat Board on the finish line by one tenth of a second.
Besson went on to become an inspirational figure in the development of French athletics, narrowly losing the European title in 1969 to her compatriot Nicole Duclos, despite running 51.70, which was faster than the world record of that time. In 1970, Besson also set a world best for 500m of 69.00.
"This is a great loss," said IAAF President Lamine Diack, "and our thoughts now go out to the family and friends of Colette Besson. I believe that she made a tremendous contribution to world athletics, as a charismatic and determined athlete in an age when women's athletics was still developing."
"She became a leading role model both for French athletics and the cause of women's athletics around the world, not only as a graceful runner, but later as a coach. She continued to give back to the sport throughout her life."
"It is particularly sad to hear that she has passed away while we are here in Helsinki for the IAAF World Championships, but it is also appropriate to honour her memory in the presence of the world's greatest athletes."
IAAF