Helena de Menezes

Helena de Menezes’ track and field athletics career began when she entered the National School of Physical Education and Sports. She joined Fluminense in 1947 and, the following year, was selected to represent Brazil at the 1948 London Games. In addition to being chosen as a reserve in the 4x100 metres relay, she competed in the 100 and 200 metres events, but was eliminated in the first round of both. She competed in these same events at the 1951 Pan American Games, surviving to the semifinals of the 200 metres and coming in fourth in the 4x100 metres relay with Deyse de Castro, Wanda dos Santos, and Elizabeth Müller. At the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, she was again eliminated in the opening round of the 100 metres and placed 24th in the long jump. She retired from active competition after her 1954 marriage and later worked as a physical education professor, also being involved in the administrative aspect of her sport.

Personal Bests: 100 – 12.2 (1952); 200 – 25.4 (1952); LJ – unknown.