Best Woman Athlete by Birth State

At one point she held all 16 freestyle swimming world records and 56 U.S. records. She was the only athlete to win three gold medals at the 1932 Olympics, finishing first in the 100-meter free, 400 free and 4x100 free relay.

Worthy of consideration: Connie Carpenter-Phinney, Jean Driscoll, Suzy Favor Hamilton, Beth Heiden, Wendy Boglioli, Chellsie Memmel, Danica Patrick and Chris Witty.