Participation of women in the Olympics winning the inaugural gold. At the 1928 Winter Games in St. Moritz, no changes were made to any female events. Fifteen year old Sonja Henie won her first of three Olympic gold medals. The summer Games of the same year saw the debut of women's athletics and gymnastics. In athletics, women competed in the 100 metres, 800 metres, 4 × 100 metres relay, high jump and discus throw. The 800-metre race was controversial as many competitors were reportedly exhausted or were unable to complete the race. Consequentially, the IOC decided to drop the 800 metres from the programme, and not
Women's athletics in Australia were not hurt because of food rationing, petrol rationing, population disbursement, and other issues facing post-war Europe. During the 1950s, Australian women dominated the athletics competitions at the Empire Games. Australians have competed in the British Athletics Championship and done well. In 1962, J. Berretta won at the mile. In 1961 and 1962, B. Moore won at the 80 metre hurdles. Historically, Australia's female athletics competitors have outperformed their male counterparts. They have won more Olympic medals. Their events are better organised. At the 1974 Commonwealth Games, Raelene Boyle won two gold medals: 100 metres and 200 metres sprint medals.