Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Jackie Joyner-Kersee, the “Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century” was the motivational speaker for the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Reward Conference held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Wednesday.

The Illinois native started her speech by sharing her humble beginnings, and how through hard work, dedication, and consistency she became a six-time Olympic medalist, including three Olympic gold medals. Joyner-Kersee discussed some of the challenges she faced like her mother’s passing, injuries, and self doubt.

Joyner-Kersee emphasized that every goal has its challenges, but to never lose sight of the goal, and to remind yourself that the obstacle is not greater than you.

This year the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center, which has served over 10,000 families annually, provided over 50,000 meals, provided educational programs preparing youth for the workforce, and much more, celebrates is 25th anniversary.

Joyner-Kersee also shares that she’s done yet, she has aspirations to continue to grow the center and one day build an indoor field house that will house track and field.

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