Fanny Blanker-Koen was one of many female athletes in the 1930s.she grew up in an active family and played sports.Her natural athleticism was encouraged.In 1935,when Kone was only 17,she set a national record in the 800-meter race.The talented Koen then took part in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Unfortunately for Kone,the two following Olympics were canceled due to World War 2 ,but she continued to train and compete.