Yordanka Donkova


Yordanka Donkova is a Bulgarian former hurdling athlete, notable for winning an Olympic gold medal and bronze medal as well as 9 medals at European indoor and outdoor championships. Donkova set four 100 m hurdles world records in 1986. Her fifth world record, a time of 12.21 set in 1988, was beaten only in 2016 by Kendra Harrison.
In total, Donkova has 16 medals from major athletics tournaments.

Personal life

Donkova suffered a childhood accident, which resulted in her losing two fingers on her right hand. She has three children. In 1991 she gave birth to a son called Zhivko; twin girls Daniela and Desislava followed in 1996.
After the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Donkova received an offer to compete for the United States, but refused to change her national allegiance and continued to represent Bulgaria.

Major achievements

Five-time Bulgarian National Champion at 100 m hurdles, 1980, 82, 84, 86 & 94.
CR = Championship Record

World records

Donkova set five world records for the 100 metres hurdles: