U.S. Divers Claim Three Gold Medals on Final Day of American Cup at Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center
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Jack Ryan and Quinn Henninger
Photo Courtesy USA Diving
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Three medals, three gold for Team USA.Three events, three golds for Sophie Verzyl.
The American Cup wrapped up Sunday with U.S. divers winning three more medals – all gold.In all, the U.S. won 10 medals – five gold, three silver and two bronze – throughout the four-day competition.
Verzyl won the individual women’s 3-meter gold medal on Sunday after winning gold in synchronized 3-meter and in the mixed 3-meter and 10-meter event earlier in the week.
Also on Sunday, Jack Ryan and Quinn Henninger won the gold medal in men’s synchronized 3-meter and Josh Hedberg won the men’s 10-meter contest .
Verzyl capped off an impressive week with 329.40 points for her 3-meter gold. She took the lead in round four and sealed the victory with 81.60 points on her front 2 ½ with 2 twists in the final round.
Great Britain’s Desharne Bent-Ashmeil came away with the silver at 303.60, and Australia’s Natalie Phan took bronze with 296.10 points.
USA’s Kyndal Knight scored 279.65 for sixth, and Margo O’Meara was eighth at 266.40.
Henninger and Ryan won gold in 3-meter synchro with 433.83 points, including more than 80 points on three of their four optionals. Their front 4 ½ tuck went for 90.06 points, and their front 2 ½ with 3 twists earned 88.92.
Ukraine’s Stanislav Oliferchyk and Kirill Boliukh claimed the silver with 397.47 points. USA’s Josh Sollenberger and Luke Sitz were third with 383.55, but the bronze medal went to Australia’s Sam Fricker and Ben Wilson. As the host country, the United States could enter two synchro teams, but only one could medal.Hedberg scored 474.80 to edge Ukraine’s Oleksii Sereda by 1.60 points for the gold. Great Britain’s Noah Williams took third with 428.65 points. Hedberg was consistent, scoring no lower than 73 points on any dive and having two go for more than 80 points – including 88.20 on a back 3 ½ pike.The U.S. had four other divers in the men’s 10-meter final. Leyton Dean finished fourth for Team USA with 420.95 points, and Max Weinrich scored 409.60 for sixth. Drew Bennett finished ninth and Nathaniel Grannis placed 11th.
Bayleigh Cranford and Ella Roselli finished fourth with 255.72 points in the women’s synchronized 10-meter contest, just 3.6 points behind bronze medalists Lois Toulson and Eden Cheng of Great Britain. Australia’s Lauren Flint and Laura Hingston scored 284.70 for gold, and Kseniia Bailo and Sofia Vystavkina of Ukraine came away with the silver.
ISHOF Specialty Awards to be presented Friday, May 15 in Fort Lauderdale
The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) Specialty Awards are presented annually to individuals for outstanding contributions to aquatics. 2026 will be jam packed will a line-up a who’s-who from the aquatic world. As a kick-off to the ISHOF Honoree weekend, this year’s awards will be presented on Friday evening, May 15, 2026 in conjunction with the ISHOF Aquatic Awards, presented by AquaCal and MISHOF (Masters) Honoree Induction Ceremonies in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
This year’s 2026 ISHOF Specialty Award Recipients:
~The 2026 Every Child A Swimmer Award~
Pool Nation
The Pool Nation Podcast Team are true innovators and unifiers within the pool and spa industry and far beyond using their platform to bring people together, elevate voices, and spark meaningful change. Through authentic conversations and bold industry leadership, they have created a space where collaboration thrives and purpose leads. Their selfless commitment to raising awareness around drowning prevention and water safety is both powerful and deeply impactful, extending far beyond the microphone and into communities across the country. Leading with heart, the Pool Nation Podcast team is driven by a genuine desire to help others, give back, and use their influence to protect lives. By amplifying the mission of Every Child a Swimmer, they have helped give a voice to lifesaving work and inspired action throughout the industry. Their passion, generosity, and unwavering sense of purpose continue to make the pool industry safer, stronger, and more united.
About G. Harold Martin: Back in 1908, G. Harold Martin almost drowned in the Ohio River. Over the next two decades he nearly drowned two more times. From these experiences evolved a mission to make “Every Child A Swimmer.” His civic involvement led to the building of Fort Lauderdale’s first municipal pool in 1927. Kiwanian sponsored free swim lessons at the pool and eventually influenced the decision by ISHOF to be in Fort Lauderdale. An active Kiwanian his entire adult life, he was instrumental in making the Key Club an integral club within Kiwanis International and the adoption of Every Child A Swimmer as a Kiwanian project. It has since been taken over by ISHOF and become the spiritual mission.
~The 2026 Buck Dawson Author’s Award~
Katie Ledecky ~ co-recipient of the 2026 Buck Dawson Author’s Award
Just Add Water charts Ledecky’s life in swimming. It details her start in Bethesda, Maryland, where she played sharks and minnows and first discovered the joy of the pool; her early foray into the Olympics at the tender age of fifteen where, as the youngest member of the American team, she stunned everyone by winning her first gold medal; her time balancing competition and her education at Stanford University; how she developed a champion’s mindset that has allowed her to persevere through so many meets, even under intense pressure; and how she has maintained her dominance in a sport where success depends on milliseconds. You learn how every element of her life—from the support of her family to the tutelage of her coaches, from her childhood spent in summer league swimming to the bright lights of Olympic pools in London, Rio, and Tokyo—set her up to become the champion she is today.
Micki King and Elaine K. Howley ~ co-recipients 2026 Buck Dawson Author’s Award
In 1968, 24-year-old Maxine “Micki” King stood atop diving’s biggest stage poised to claim the gold medal in the women’s 3-meter event. She’d led for the entirety of the competition, but on the 9th of 10 dives, disaster struck and she finished in 4th place.
But destiny – and diving – was far from done with King, who went on to claim that gold in the 1972 Munich Games while pioneering a new leadership model for women in sports, the military, and public life.
In this inspiring recitation of her journey from suburban Michigan to the White House and beyond, King shares her tale of breaking boundaries and supporting athletes’ rights across the full spectrum of Olympic sports.
While King’s story is all because of diving, it isn’t just about diving; it’s about persistence, principle, and paving the way for others to achieve their fullest potential.
Elaine K. Howley is an award-winning freelance journalist and editor based in Boston, Massachusetts. A southern New Jersey native and a lifelong swimmer.
Howley holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a master’sdegree in publishing and writing from Emerson College in Boston.Specializing in sports, health, and history topics, Howley’s freelance work hasappeared in TIME, U.S. News & World Report, AARP.org, espnW, and manyother publications. She is a frequent contributor to U.S. Masters Swimming’sflagship SWIMMER magazine and the UK-based open water swimmingpublication Outdoor Swimmer magazine.
Elaine’s first book-length memoir ghostwriting project, “A Life Aloft” completed with Tom Gompf and published by CG Sports Publishing in 2021, was awarded the 2023 Buck Dawson Authors Award from ISHOF.
About Buck Dawson: Dawson was a veteran of WWII who served as assistant and publicist for Generals Gavin and Ridgeway in the 82nd Airborne. From the time he was chosen to lead ISHOF in 1962, until his death in 2008, Buck traveled the world armed with Hall of Fame brochures, books, and bumper stickers.
~The 2026 John K. Williams, Jr. Adapted Aquatics Award ~
Beth Scalone (USA) — 2026 John K. Williams, Jr. Adapted Aquatics Award
Beth Scalone is a licensed physical therapist specializing in orthopedic and aquatic therapy. As the owner of North County Water & Sports Therapy Center it is her goal to provide quality one on one care to a variety of patients.
Beth is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and private practice owner with over 30 years of experience in aquatic and orthopedic physical therapy.She has a passion for problem solving and guiding her patients and clients back to doing the things they love. She has had the good fortune to share her experience with other aquatic therapists around the world. Beth finds that “treating and teaching keeps her curious, expands her knowledge and energizes her soul”.
~The 2026 Al Schoenfield Media Award ~
Ted Robinson (USA) — 2026 Al Schoenfield Media Award
Ted Robinson is a three-time Emmy award-winning sports broadcaster with a 45-year career spanning television and radio across global, professional and collegiate sports.
He has provided commentary on the last 15 Olympic Games, more than 60 professional Grand Slam tennis championships and as a lead play-by-play announcer for teams in the NFL, MLB and NBA.
His Olympic career has been highlighted by calling the diving competition in the last 6 Summer Games as well as the last 6 US Olympic Diving Trials with partner Cynthia Potter. In the first Summer Games he covered, Ted received a late assignment to cover Synchronized Swimming with partner Tracie Ruiz. In 2003, NBC/USA Swimming opened the door to aquatics with the chance to call the inaugural Duel in the Pool. Ted, partnered with Rowdy Gaines, went on to call the 2011 World Championships in Shanghai, the 2010 US National Championships, 2 Pan Pacific Championships and multiple years of USA Swimming Pro events, including Katie Ledecky’s first professional meet (Charlotte 2012.)
About Al Schoenfield: He was the Editor and Publisher of Swimming World Magazine (1960-1977) and served on various international committees of swimming, including the FINA Technical Swimming Committee (1980-1984). Schoenfield’s life was a commitment to swimming, and he participated in its administrative structure and spread its stories through his magazines and promotions. Al died in 2005, but his legacy will forever endure to all who have benefited from his lifetime of service to swimming.
About ISHOF
The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) museum opened its doors to the public in December of 1968 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. That same year, the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) – the governing body for Olympic aquatic sports – designated the ISHOF museum as the “Official Repository for Aquatic History”. Today, ISHOF’s vision is to be the global focal point for recording and sharing the history of aquatics, promoting swimming as an essential life-skill, and developing educational programs and events related to water sports.
For ISHOF Aquatic & Specialty Awards and Masters Induction Ceremony (Friday, May 15, 2026) Buy Tickets Here: AWARDSMASTERSTICKETS
For Saturday 61st Annual Honoree Induction,(Saturday, May 16, 2026) Buy Tickets Here: INDUCTIONTICKETS
HOST HOTEL:Embassy Suites 17 th St, 1100 S.E. 17 th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316,Phone: 954.527.2700 / Hotel Nightly Rate: $219.Hotel Link:– Use this link to make hotel reservations:
Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
Use QR Code to make your Hotel Reservations
Click link below to see all award winners
ASCA/ISHOF Coaches Clinic Featuring Honoree Gregg Troy: https://web.cvent.com/event/95f72cfc-f855-4e4d-bfb4-856f4b86ddc
ISHOF to celebrate Aquatic Awards presented by AquaCal as kickoff to Honoree weekend
The 2026 ISHOF Aquatic Awards presented by AquaCal will be truly international this year as the individuals represent four countries out of the five categories this year. The ISHOF Aquatic Awards are presented annually to individuals or organizations for outstanding contributions to aquatics. This year’s awards will be held Friday evening, May 15, 2026, as a kick off to the 61st Annual ISHOF Honoree Induction weekend in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
If you have not bought your tickets yet, get them now, sets are limited!!!!
The annual awards are a spectacular event that celebrates the unsung heroes who make competitive and recreational aquatics possible. These are the people who save lives, promote water safety and further aquatic education around the world. We are proud to recognize these important individuals at the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
About this year’s ISHOF Aquatic Awards presented by AquaCal
David Szanto (HUN) – Competitive Swimming
David Szanto has been involved with swimming dating back from the time he was an athlete. He currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer for the Hungarian Swimming Federation (Magyar Uszo Szovetseg). He also holds the role of COO for various major organizing committees, including those of the 2022 FINA World Championships and the upcoming Budapest 2027 World Aquatics Championships, to be held next Summer.
He has been a central figure in bringing major international swimming events to Hungary, serving as head of the local organizing committee, bringing multiple World Aquatic World Cups (2021, 2023) and the 2024 World Swimming Championships (25m).
Drew Johansen (USA) – Competitive Diving
Drew Johansen is only the third Coach to lead one of the most storied programs in the country: Diving at Indiana University. Johansen took over the IU program in 2013. He has been Head Coach for the U.S. Diving Team for the 2012, 2016, 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games. Prior to the appointments, Johansen spent ten years as a U.S. National Team Coach. Under Johansen’s direction, the United States took home one gold, five silver and four bronze medals, putting the U.S. team as the number two medal producer in the world.
Mary Black (SCO) – Artistic Swimming
96 year old Mary Black has spent a lifetime involved in synchronized swimming. She began by attending courses at the Crystal Palace in London and soon after, synchro was born in Scotland. Mary represented Scotland, performing overseas, including a demonstration at the 1970 Commonwealth Games.
By 1974 Mary was Chair of the International Synchronized Swimming Coaching Panel. Next, she became an international judge, where she served at numerous national and international synchro events, including the Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games, as well as many regional and national synchro championships. The pinnacle was when Mary was selected as event referee at four Olympic Games (1984, 1988, 1992, 1996).
Mary was a member of the FINA Technical Synchronized Swimming Committee almost continuously from 1984 to 1996. She was also the first woman to become President of the Scottish Amateur Swimming Association and the first person, male or female, to serve two terms.
Mary, along with husband Bill, developed the Judges’ Evaluation criteria document which evolved into the Synchronized Swimming Operating Manual used at all international competitions.
Leanne Barnes (AUS) – Water Polo
Leeann Barnes is all things Water Polo. She played on the Victorian State Team from 1975, leading to selection on the Australian National Team from 1978 to 1982. Next, she Barnes stepped into the vacated national coach role at the 1982 World Championships in Guayaquil, Ecuador, followed by the manager role with the Australian National team from 1983 to 1992. Barnes then joined the international committee pursuing the inclusion of women’s water polo onto the Olympic program, working tirelessly from 1982 until the success of that campaign in 1997. Leanne then stepped into leadership roles with the Australian women’s program from 1986 until 2008.
Barnes has been recognized in the Australian Honours system with the Order of Australia Medal OAM, in 2019, for services to water polo and women’s sport; and in 2021, with the Public Service Medal PSM, for services to local government and community, particularly in emergency management and resilience.
The New Jersey Swim Safety Alliance –Aquatic Safety
The New Jersey Swim Safety Alliance is a collaborative coalition dedicated to advancing water safety and preventing drowning across communities throughout New Jersey. Through strong partnerships with swim schools, public agencies, healthcare leaders, and community organizations, the Alliance works to expand access to swim education and promote evidence-based safety practices. Their efforts focus on innovative programs, public awareness, and policy solutions that help keep children and families safe around water. United by a shared mission, the Alliance believes collaboration is the most powerful tool in creating lasting, community-wide impact.
Together, they are building safer environments and saving lives through prevention, education, and action.
Please join us in celebrating these stellar individuals and their achievements on Friday, May 15, 2026 at the Embassy Suites, 1100 S.E. 17th Street., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316; to purchase tickets, click here:
Use QR Code to buy tickets to Friday night, May 15th ISHOF Aquatic Awards, Specialty Awards and Masters Induction Ceremony
WHERE: Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
WHEN: Friday, May 15, 2026
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
Click link below to see all award winners
HOTEL:
Make your Hotel reservations Now! The Host Hotel ~ Special Rate $219
Photo Courtesy: Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale
Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
Use QR Code to make your Hotel Reservations
Tickets for the ISHOF Class of 2026 Honoree Induction Ceremonies
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2026
WHERE: War Memorial Auditorium, 800 Northeast 8th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, 33304
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
AquaCal® has been the leading swimming pool heat pump manufacturer since 1981, offering a full range of units to meet any heating need. AquaCal® can maintain anything from small above ground pools up to very large commercial facilities. (Currently heating and chilling the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Aquatic Center pools) The chillers, as well as the heat and cool units, can be used to create cold plunge pools for therapy too. Whatever your pool heating/cooling needs, AquaCal® can help!
For more information call Meg Keller-Marvin at 570.594.4367
#ISHOF #Aquaticawards #AquaCal #Swimming #Fortlauderdale #Diving #Waterpolo #Artisticswimming #Everychildaswimmer #swimlessons #WorldAquatics
Flashback Friday – 1923: Six World Record Holders and Five Honorees
Six World Record Holders after competing in the greatest water carnival, 1923 at the famed Broadripple Pool, Indianapolis (L to R) Ludy Langer, Charlotte Boyle, Johnny Weissmuller, Norman Ross, Robert L. Pearson, Ethelda Bleibtry.
Five of the six would become Honorees in the International Swimming Hall of Fame. What are the odds?
Reach what made each one of these Honorees so special and learn their about history.
Honoree Bios:
Johnny Weissmuller
https://ishof.org/honoree/honoree-johnny-weissmuller/
Ethelda Bleibtrey
https://ishof.org/honoree/honoree-ethelda-bleibtrey/
Norman Ross
https://ishof.org/honoree/honoree-norman-ross/
Charlotte Boyle
https://ishof.org/honoree/honoree-charlotte-boyle/
Ludy Langer
ISHOF Celebrates 2026 Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honoree Ceremony ~ Friday, May 15
The Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honoree Induction Ceremony will take place on Friday, May 15 and serve as a kickoff to the Honoree weekend along with the ISHOF Aquatic and Specialty Awards, presented that same evening. The Class of 2026 includes four Masters Swimmers, and one Masters Water Polo Player. We will also be inducting one Masters Swimmer and one Masters Artistic Swimmer from last year who were unable to attend.
MISHOF’s Class of Honorees includes swimmers, Ellen Reynolds (USA), Kirsten Cameron (NZL, AUS, GBR, NED), Eiji Nomura (JPN), Toshio Tajima (JPN) and Hiroshi Matsumoto (JPN), Artistic Swimmer, Joyce Corner* (CAN), and Water Polo Player, Georgy “Misha” Mshvenieradze. “It’s quite a remarkable group”, said Bruce Wigo, ISHOF Historian, and former CEO; “We look forward to welcoming them to Fort Lauderdale and celebrating them during our Honoree weekend!”
Kirsten CAMERON (NZE, AUS, GBR, NED) Masters Swimmer
Kirsten is still relatively new to Masters Swimming. She did not even begin swimming competitively until she was 30 years old. She joined a Masters Club in Wellington, New Zealand, and that was the beginning of her swimming career. Yet, at 52, she already has 24 Masters World Records and 1033 World Points. A New Zealander, who began competing in the 30-34 age group, she is currently swimming in the 50-54 age group.
Kirsten left New Zealand and is currently living and swimming in Eindhoven, Netherlands. Prior to that, she was in Great Britain, and has also swum for a Melbourne swim club. She enjoys open water swimming and was part of a group of masters swimmers who attempted to break the English Channel relay record. She has also competed on the Open Water World Cup Circuit. Since COVID saw her return to open water, most recently she has focused on longer events which have included completing Ulswater, Lake Zurich, Capri-Napoli and the challenging Vidosternsimmit and is planning to swim Lake Malawi.
Kirsten has attended three FINA World Championships, Stanford, 2006, Perth, 2008, and Gothenburg, 2010, swimming all freestyle events while winning all gold, 10 medals in total, breaking world records while doing it.
Eiji NOMURA (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Eiji Nomura of Japan began his Masters career swimming in the 30-34 age group. During his Masters career, he has competed in five age groups ranging from the 30-34 through the 50-54 age group. He has broken 22 FINA Masters World Records in the butterfly, freestyle, and I.M. events. He has 889 points and has been in the Top Ten 18 times.
In World Rankings, he has a combined total, long and short course, of 61 – Number 1, 21 – Number 2 and 18- 3 Number 3 in the butterfly, freestyle and I.M.
Nomura also holds many Japanese records, including the fastest 25m butterfly (Masters SC 40-44 men), 100m butterfly (Masters LC 40-44 men), 200m freestyle (Masters LC 45-49 men), 50m freestyle (Masters SC 45-49).
He has not competed in any FINA Masters World Championships, accumulating all of his 889 world points by breaking world records and setting world rankings.
Ellen REYNOLDS (USA) Masters Swimmer
Ellen Reynolds, new to the women’s 60-64 age group in 2024, has set an unprecedented 26 Masters World records this year between long course and short course meters, solidifying her legacy as an extraordinary Masters swimmer. She’s also been a part of five world-record-setting relays as a member of Team Redbird Masters.
Her records span a remarkable range, from the shortest sprints, like the 50 backstroke and fly, to the grueling 1500-meter freestyle, showcasing her versatility. Despite her impressive achievements, Ellen remains humble and focused on enjoying the sport.
One of the more interesting stats is that Ellen holds a world record in every event except the 50 free, 50 breast, 100 breast, and 200 fly. And she didn’t just break these world records—she demolished them by large margins.
Just as impressive, Ellen has balanced a demanding career as a pediatric surgeon with her swimming for many years, but has just retired in September after 25 years in the field. Her work ethic as a surgeon often influenced her approach to swimming. This year, Ellen isn’t just grateful for her fast swimming. She said, “I’d like to say thank you to all of the volunteers running the swim meets. I couldn’t have done it without them!”
Toshio TAJIMA (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Toshio Tajima is a Japanese Masters swimmer who competes in the breaststroke and butterfly events. He has broken a total of 21 world records; Some of his records were broken up to 14 years ago and seven of them are still standing.
He has competed in seven different age groups beginning in the 60-64 age group through 90-94 and he has been in the Top Ten 32 times. He has been in the world rankings since 1985 with a combined total of 45 – Number 1, 22 – Number 2 and 11 Number 3 in the butterfly and breaststroke events.
Tajima competed in six FINA Masters World Championships: 1986, Tokyo; 1988, Brisbane; 1990, Rio; 1998, Casablanca; 2000, Munich; and 2002 Christchurch, winning 2 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze medals.
Mr. Tajima stopped competing in 2019, where he was swimming in the 90-94 age group.
Georgy “Misha” MSHVENIERADZE (RUS) Masters Water Polo Player
Georgy “Misha” Mshvenieradze is a 65-year old Soviet water polo player.
Misha was known for his strength on the 2-meter line, his ability to score under heavy contact, his positional and tactical intelligence and his natural leadership ~ a combination that defined the center forward role in the 1980’s and remains a benchmark for modern coaches and players.
Misha has been active in Masters water polo since 2000, and his team has won seven gold medals and one silver in FINA/World Aquatics World Masters Championships competition.
He and his team, Moscu 04 also won gold in 2009 at the Copa de Espana Masters event in the 40+ age group, competing in Tenerife, Spain. Mishi has competed for three different clubs, while competing in Masters: WP Moscu04, Dynamo Masters, and Europa Sporting Roma.
Joyce CORNER (CAN) 2025 Masters Synchronized Swimmer
Canadian, Joyce Corner attended her first FINA World Championships in 1992 in Indianapolis, where she and her teammates came away with a bronze medal in the trio 65+ event. Four years later, Corner walked away with her first World title in the duet. She continued attending Masters World Championships, mostly bringing home gold medals. In all, she won ten World Championship gold, five silver, and one bronze.
In the mid-2000’s Corner formed a new club, the New Wave Synchro Masters, where she coached and competed as a member in her last two appearances at Worlds in 2004 and 2008.
Joyce has been involved in just about all areas of synchronized swimming. She was on the Canadian Synchronized Swimming Committee for countless years and represented Canada in Masters FINA meets when present. She was the Canadian representative to the FINA Masters Synchronized Swimming Committee which helped develop the requirements when FINA transitioned from a figure competition to a technical program.
She was a FINA-rated “A” international judge, and she has judged Pan American Games, World Aquatics Championships, the Olympic Games in Seoul in 1988, as well as many other events in Canada and around the world.
Hiroshi MATSUMOTO (JPN) 2025 Masters Swimmer
Hiroshi Matsumoto, born in 1936, began swimming in high school. There were no pools where he lived, just a pond with hundreds of frogs. And a few snakes.
When he was in his early 20s, he moved to the area in Japan where Mt. Fuji is, to take a job, as a lumberjack. There was a 50-meter pool near his office. For nine years, he swam there almost every day in the summer.
In his late 50’s, Matsumoto joined Masters Swimming. When he reached his 60’s, he started breaking national records, even though he was diagnosed with cancer, and needed surgery in his mid-60s. In his 70’s, he started breaking world records.
Matsumoto competes mainly in the butterfly and the freestyle events. His favorite stroke is the butterfly, but at 84, he had a terrible accident and tore up his shoulder; the doctors said he might not swim again. He is swimming again and breaking records, but only in the freestyle events.
Matsumoto has broken over 100 national records and 28 world records. He has been in the Top Ten for 27 years and has accumulated 945 world points.
He has attended four FINA/World Aquatic Championships, winning two gold and three silver: 2002: gold (50m butterfly 65-69); 2006: silver (50m butterfly 70-74); 2008: gold (50m butterfly 70-74); 2023: silver (50m free, 100 free 85-89).
Matsumoto still keeps hope that he is going to swim butterfly again someday.
Use QR Code to buy tickets to Friday night, May 15th Masters and Awards Night
WHERE: Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
WHEN: Friday, May 15, 2026
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
Click link below to see all award winners
HOTEL:
Make your Hotel reservations Now! The Host Hotel ~ Special Rate $219
Photo Courtesy: Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale
Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
Use QR Code to make your Hotel Reservations
Tickets for the ISHOF Class of 2026 Honoree Induction Ceremonies
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2026
WHERE: War Memorial Auditorium, 800 Northeast 8th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, 33304
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
ASCA/ISHOF Coaches Clinic Featuring Honoree Gregg Troy:
https://web.cvent.com/event/95f72cfc-f855-4e4d-bfb4-856f4b86ddc
Dutch Superstar Ranomi Kormowidjojo to be inducted as Honor Swimmer on May 16, 2026
Ranomi Kromowidjojo (NED) is a triple Olympic champion, winning the gold medal in the 4 x 100-freestyle relay at the 2008 Olympic Games, and then in London, in 2012, she took gold in the 50- and 100-meter freestyle, as well as a silver in the 400 free relay event. She set most of her world records primarily in the short course (SCM) 50m freestyle and on various Dutch relays, though she still ranks amongst the fastest ever. She has won an astounding 178 FINA/World Aquatics medals in international competition during her career, 70 gold, 62 silver and 46 bronze.
Learn more about Ranomi Kromowidjojo and the other 12 outstanding Honorees who will be inducted this year at ISHOF’s 61st Honoree Induction Ceremony Buy your tickets NOW for ISHOF’s 61st Anniversary of the Honoree Induction Ceremony in Fort Lauderdale in conjunction with the World Aquatics High Dive World Cup
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2026
WHERE: War Memorial Auditorium, 800 Northeast 8th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, 33304
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
~ISHOF Class of 2026~
Nathan Adrian (USA) Honor Swimmer
Laszlo Cseh (HUN) Honor Swimmer
Ranomi Kromowidjojo (NED) Honor Swimmer
Ryan Lochte (USA) Honor Swimmer (Class of 2025)
Ferry Weertman (NED) Honor Open Water Swimmer
Tania Cagnotto (ITA) Honor Diver
Simone Fountain (AUS) Honor Water Polo Player
Heather Simon Carassco (USA) Honor Artistic Swimmer
Jane Figueiredo (ZIM) Honor Coach
Gregg Troy (USA) Honor Coach (Class of 2025)
Stephen A. “Sid” Cassidy (USA) Honor Contributor
Richard Burns (USA) Honor Masters Swimmer
Beatrice Hess (FRA) Honor Paralympic Swimmer
Make your Hotel reservations Now! The Host Hotel ~ Special Rate $219
Photo Courtesy: Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale
Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
Use QR Code to make your Hotel Reservations
Tickets for Friday Night’s Masters Induction, ISHOF Aquatic and Specialty Awards
Use QR Code to buy tickets to Friday night, May 15th Masters and Awards Night.
Click link below to see all award winners
ASCA/ISHOF Coaches Clinic Featuring Honoree Gregg Troy:
https://web.cvent.com/event/95f72cfc-f855-4e4d-bfb4-856f4b86ddc
Richard Burns to be first Masters Swimmer to be inducted into ISHOF since 2015
Richard Burns (USA) will be the first Masters Swimmer to be inducted into ISHOF in ten years. He has competed in 11 age groups, 30-34 through 80-84, which he is currently competing in. He has broken an amazing 97 world records as of December 2024, and those are only his individual WR. Rich has competed in six different FINA/World Aquatics Masters World Championships, winning 13 gold, eight silver and two bronze medals, again all individual events. There’s more to add when we start considering his relays. As of December 2023, Burns had added a mind boggling 3,215 FINA Masters World points. Rich was inducted into the Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2010. At the time he had amassed 37 FINA World Records. Since then, he has added 60 additional World Records to his count.
Learn more about Rich Burns and the other 12 outstanding Honorees who will be inducted this year at ISHOF’s 61st Honoree Induction Ceremony Buy your tickets NOW for ISHOF’s 61st Anniversary of the Honoree Induction Ceremony in Fort Lauderdale in conjunction with the World Aquatics High Dive World Cup
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2026
WHERE: War Memorial Auditorium, 800 Northeast 8th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, 33304
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
~ISHOF Class of 2026~
Nathan Adrian (USA) Honor Swimmer
Laszlo Cseh (HUN) Honor Swimmer
Ranomi Kromowidjojo (NED) Honor Swimmer
Ryan Lochte (USA) Honor Swimmer (Class of 2025)
Ferry Weertman (NED) Honor Open Water Swimmer
Tania Cagnotto (ITA) Honor Diver
Simone Fountain (AUS) Honor Water Polo Player
Heather Simon Carassco (USA) Honor Artistic Swimmer
Jane Figueiredo (ZIM) Honor Coach
Gregg Troy (USA) Honor Coach (Class of 2025)
Stephen A. “Sid” Cassidy (USA) Honor Contributor
Richard Burns (USA) Honor Masters Swimmer
Beatrice Hess (FRA) Honor Paralympic Swimmer
Make your Hotel reservations Now! The Host Hotel ~ Special Rate $219
Photo Courtesy: Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale
Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
Use QR Code to make your Hotel Reservations
Tickets for Friday Night’s Masters Induction, ISHOF Aquatic and Specialty Awards
Use QR Code to buy tickets to Friday night, May 15th Masters and Awards Night.
Click link below to see all award winners
ASCA/ISHOF Coaches Clinic Featuring Honoree Gregg Troy:
https://web.cvent.com/event/95f72cfc-f855-4e4d-bfb4-856f4b86ddc
ISHOF ANNOUNCES RECIPIENT OF 2026 “ESTHER” AWARD: “The Dual We Missed”
Fort Lauderdale – The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) recently announced the recipients of the 2026 “Esther” Award, named after 1966 ISHOF Honoree and Hollywood legend, Esther Williams. The award which recognizes outstanding achievements in the film and entertainment industries that promotes a positive image of swimming as a key to fun, fitness, good health, a better quality of life and an essential water safety and lifesaving skill.
“We are extremely proud that Ms. Esther Williams has lent her famous name to this award,” said Bruce Wigo, Historian of ISHOF. “As one of America’s iconic film stars, she did more through her films to promote swimming than anyone else in history.”
Esther Williams was a national swimming champion in 1939. Unable to compete in the 1940 Olympics because of WWII, she turned professional and swam alongside Olympic Champion and Tarzan star Johnny Weissmuller in the Billy Rose Aquacade in San Francisco. The Aquacade brought her to the attention of MGM talent scouts and the rest is history. She starred in 27 major Hollywood films and as a businesswoman organized traveling water shows and ran a swimwear company with her name. Esther was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1966 and received ISHOF’s Gold Medallion Award in 2006.
This year, ISHOF will present the 2026 Esther Award to “The Dual We Missed” from a category intended to revive interest in a historically significant film: “ This movie tells the story of Brian Goodell of the USA and Vladimir Salnikov of Russia, the two greatest long distance swimmers in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s who never got the chance to race because of politics. One of our favorite writers, John Lohn, Editor of Swimming World Magazine penned this article about the film back in November:
Brian Goodell vs. Vladimir Salnikov: ‘The Duel We Missed’ Documentary Receiving Academy Award Consideration
By: John Lohn, Editor, Swimming World Magazine
Documentary films, at their core, take a deep dive into a specific topic. They are detailed. They offer emotion. They introduce engaging characters and storylines. They take the viewer behind a curtain, often revealing elements of a tale that were never before presented, or might have gone overlooked.
“The Duel We Missed” checks those boxes, However, due to political inerference, a duel between Goodell and Salnikov – with both men at the peak of their powers – was left to the imagination. “The Duel We Missed” delves deeply into the careers of Goodell and Salnikov, and their shared chase to become the first athlete in history to swim the 1500-meter freestyle in under 15 minutes.
The documentary, produced by Bravo Films and directed by Ilnur Rafikov and Edward Staroselsky, also examines several complementary storylines – the political influence and boycotts of the 1980 and 1984 Olympics, athlete mentality, training of the era and the respect developed among individuals with like-minded goals.
At the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, where the United States men won all but one gold medal in the 13 events contested, Goodell stormed to victory in the 400 and 1500 freestyle events, world records established in both. In the 1500 freestyle, Goodell was timed in 15:02.40, not far off the 15-minute barrier that was a target. Salnikov, a rising 16-year-old at the time, was fifth in the Montreal final, and while he finished off the podium, his prodigious talent suggested big things to come, including a rivalry with Goodell.
However, in the years ahead, multiple factors prevented Goodell and Salnikov from meeting while the men were at the top of their prowess. Goodell missed the 1978 World Championships, where Salnikov won gold medals in the 400 freestyle and 1500 freestyle, the longer event not far off Goodell’s world record. And as the 1980 Olympics neared, a hammer dropped on a potential duel in Moscow when U.S. President Jimmy Carter announced the United States would boycott the Games due to the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan.
Through the use of current-day interviews, highlighted by Goodell and Salnikov, “The Duel We Missed” takes both a wide-ranging and topic-specific look at the era. The feelings of Goodell and Salnikov were repeatedly shared, and their status in the sport was examined, including through the lens of Hall of Fame coach Mark Schubert, who was the mentor of Goodell. Also weighing in were Olympians John Naber and Rowdy Gaines, each sharing a perspective. Naber won three gold medals during his Team USA days and transitioned into a broadcasting career, which allowed him to interact with Salnikov and hear the Soviet star state that he was not a “true champion” without competing in a fully attended Olympic Games.
As for Gaines, now known as the Voice of Swimming for his work with NBC Sports, he provided personal stories about how the boycott impacted his life and career. Ultimately, Gaines returned to training after a brief retirement and won three gold medals at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, and he spoke about seeing his dream through. Yet, Gaines also poignantly discussed the heartache of the Olympic hopefuls who did not get their chance on the biggest stage in sports.
Vladimir Salnikov. Photo Courtesy: Dutch National Archives
The documentary, which was perfectly organized, spanned 1976-1988, as it examined Salnikov dealing with the Soviet Union’s retaliatory boycott of the 1984 Games and his triumphant return to win gold in the 1500 freestyle at the 1988 Games in Seoul. The film also provided footage of Salnikov cracking the 15-minute barrier for the first time, an accomplishment that will live on as a distinguished achievement in the sport.
Among other standout moments from the documentary:
Footage and interviews from a Soviet Union trip to the United States which allowed for training under Schubert’s guidance. The memories shared from this time were genuine and both illustrated respect among athletes, and how the Soviet Union learned about the intensity of Schubert’s workouts in Mission Viejo, California.
Schubert, in this current era, telling Goodell that he wished he had not retired following the boycott, and Goodell stating that he had a few reservations about his decision as the 1984 Games neared.
The playing of the Soviet national anthem following Salnikov’s victory at the 1988 Olympics, one of the final times the anthem was played before the breakup of the USSR. More, the story of Salnikov being lauded by his fellow athletes in the dining hall in Seoul on the night of his 1500 freestyle victory elicited goosebumps, and emphasized the appreciation Olympians share for each other.
The illustrations and graphics used during the documentary were sensational, providing the feel of a comic book and celebrating the individuals and moments featured.
The emotion expressed throughout the 90-minute documentary was tremendous. Tears flowed. Words were sometimes difficult to find. Admiration was constantly evident.
A phone call late in the film between Goodell, Schubert and Salnikov was a wonderful touch, and further emphasized the respect that permeated the film and the careers of all three men.
“The Duel We Missed” is an extraordinary film, exactly what a special documentary should be. Years of work, research and interviews went into making this film and bringing the story of Goodell and Salnikov to viewers. Swim fans, especially those with an understanding of the rich history of the sport, will appreciate it. But casual viewers will also find themselves engaged, enraptured by a story that has emotion, intensity, goal-chasing and more.
Sadly, a showdown between Brian Goodell and Vladimir Salnikov in their prime was missed. But “The Duel We Missed” pays beautiful homage to the athletes and the era, and what might have been.
ISHOF will present the Esther Award for this film during the 2026 ISHOF Honoree Induction Weekend, May 15, at the Embassy Suites, 17th Street, in Ft. Lauderdale. ISHOF is holding a special viewing of the documentary on Saturday, May 16, at 3:00 p.m. free of charge, at the Embassy Suites, 1100, S.E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316. After the showing of the film, Brian Goodell and coach, Mark Schubert will be available for a question-and-answer type forum.
For more information, contact Meg Keller, at meg@ishof-org or call 570.594.4367 or Bruce Wigo at Bruce.wigo@yahoo.com or call 954.559.1622.
To buy tickets for the 61st Annual Honoree weekend, click here:
2025’s Honor Coach Gregg Troy to be inducted into ISHOF this year with Class of 2026 along with his swimmer, Lochte
Gregg Troy (USA) is a three-time Olympic Coach for the USA, 1996, 2008 and 2012. He has coached many Olympians and Olympic gold medalists including Ryan Lochte, Caleb Dressel and Elizabeth Beisel to name a just few. He was the Head Coach of the Bolles School, 1977-1997, and the University of Florida Gators from 1998-2018, winning the Women’s NCAA’s in 2010.
Learn more about Coach Troy and the other 12 outstanding Honorees who will be inducted this year at ISHOF’s 61st Honoree Induction Ceremony Buy your tickets NOW for ISHOF’s 61st Anniversary of the Honoree Induction Ceremony in Fort Lauderdale in conjunction with the World Aquatics High Dive World Cup
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2026
WHERE: War Memorial Auditorium, 800 Northeast 8th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, 33304
Tickets are NOW ON SALE ~ PURCHASE THEM HERE!
~ISHOF Class of 2026~
Nathan Adrian (USA) Honor Swimmer
Laszlo Cseh (HUN) Honor Swimmer
Ranomi Kromowidjojo (NED) Honor Swimmer
Ryan Lochte (USA) Honor Swimmer (Class of 2025)
Ferry Weertman (NED) Honor Open Water Swimmer
Tania Cagnotto (ITA) Honor Diver
Simone Fountain (AUS) Honor Water Polo Player
Heather Simon Carassco (USA) Honor Artistic Swimmer
Jane Figueiredo (ZIM) Honor Coach
Gregg Troy (USA) Honor Coach (Class of 2025)
Stephen A. “Sid” Cassidy (USA) Honor Contributor
Richard Burns (USA) Honor Masters Swimmer
Beatrice Hess (FRA) Honor Paralympic Swimmer
Make your Hotel reservations Now! The Host Hotel ~ Special Rate $219
Photo Courtesy: Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale
Embassy Suites 17th Street, 1100 S. E. 17th Street, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
Use QR Code to make your Hotel Reservations
Tickets for Friday Night’s Masters Induction, ISHOF Aquatic and Specialty Awards
Use QR Code to buy tickets to Friday night, May 15th Masters and Awards Night.
Click link below to see all award winners
ASCA/ISHOF Coaches Clinic Featuring Honoree Gregg Troy:
https://web.cvent.com/event/95f72cfc-f855-4e4d-bfb4-856f4b86ddc
After the Applause – April 2026 – Michelle Calkins (CAN) Honor Synchronized Swimmer 2001
You were inducted in 2001, tell us what you have been up to since then?
The induction was very special, and to happened 23 years after winning gold at the World Aquatic Championships in Berlin. It flooded me with so many wonderful moments. We were living in London at the time, out of coaching and out of touch with sport. The induction was so much more than the recognition of my success, it was a huge nod to our sport and all the athletes, coaches and officials involved in Synchronized Swimming. Thank you so much for the Honor.
What do you do for work / as a profession?
After retiring, I coached and trained as a professional coach under Debbie Muir and the Coaching Association of Canada. Working with Junior athletes, including future Olympians, Michelle Cameron, Cari Read, Karen Fonteyne and Karen Clark. Towards the end of my coaching career I successfully coached/lead the Canadian National team to a silver medal at World Aquatic Championships in Rome 1994. Coming full circle.
Are you still involved in artistic swimming in any capacity?
With a focus now on family and marriage I retired, and we moved first to London and later to Houston Texas. We have two grown children, both with Master degrees, one a clinical psychologist and one initially an environmental scientist, but now a director/scientist for an Agricultural company, both in the US. Happily both are swimmers, skiers and tennis players!
Do you still stay in touch with any synchro swimming friends from your competition days, if so, who?
I do keep in touch with fellow Hall of Famer, Debbie Muir, Paragon Award winners Mary Ann Reeves and Margaret McLennan. We try to do an annual trip as friends and fellow synchro enthusiasts. There is a bit of banter about the changes and evolution of synchro to artistic swimming, but it is all positive! The artistic component to the sport has always held a special place for me and the collaboration with the swimmers, the music, the water, always was a key love of the sport. There are so many memories , probably the first time, nobody forgets, like when I swam my first mile, recorded my first 9 score, my first duet partner, and the first time they played the National anthem. I think it is the totality of the experience as swimmer and coach that stays with me today.
Michelle attending ISHOF’s 2022 Honoree Induction Ceremonies with fellow synchronized swimmer Judy McGowan
If you have children, do your kids swim, if yes, tell us about them, if no, tell us about what they are involved in (sports, arts, etc.)
When we lived in London I started tennis lessons, another incredibly technical sport, which is the aspect I love and of course I am still extremely competitive. I play doubles and love the chance to work with another player to be the best we can be. I play in numerous leagues in Houston TX and love the social interaction and celebration of a new sport.
What is best memory of your days in swimming? (You can have more than one)
The summers I spend in Canada on my farm, growing vegetables, another important part of my life.
Seeing the changes that have occurred in swimming/aquatics now versus when you were competing, do you wish you could have competed now, or are you glad you competed when you did and why?
I would love to go to LA Olympics and attend the artistic swimming, to celebrate and cheer the next champions.
Any advice to all the future want-to-be Olympic artistic swimmers out there?
Words for future,” have courage, use your imagination and remember. “
To read Michelle’s 2001 ISHOF biography, click here: https://ishof.org/honoree/honoree-michelle-calkins/