Born on 11 November 1943 in Tapah, Perak, Mary Mailvaganam Rajamani rose from humble beginnings to become one of Malaysia’s most celebrated athletes. She gained national recognition in the 1960s for her speed and determination on the track, earning the nickname “Queen of Tracks”.

Her most notable achievement came in 1964, when she represented Malaysia in the women’s 400 metres at the Tokyo Summer Olympics, becoming the first Malaysian female Olympian. M. Rajamani continued to shine in regional competitions, including the 1966 British Empire and Commonwealth Games, and was a prominent figure in Southeast Asian athletics during that era.

In recognition of her contributions to sports and national pride, she was awarded the Member of the Order of the Defender of the Realm (A.M.N.) in 1968, one of Malaysia’s distinguished honors.

Even decades after her retirement, Datuk Mary Rajamani remains a symbol of perseverance and national pride. Her story—from running barefoot in tin-mining towns to standing on the Olympic stage—continues to inspire generations of Malaysian athletes.