Fanny Rosenfeld was born on December 28, 1903 in Dnepropetrovsk, Russia. After Fanny’s birth, the Rosenfeld family moved to Barrie, Ontario. Rosenfeld’s athletic ability was first noticed during a 100-metre dash that she ran for fun in a small track and field meet in 1923. She came first in the race, beating Rosa Grosse, the Canadian champion.