Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis recognized by ISHOF at Chamber’s “Salute to Broward”
On Friday, November 17, 2023 Matt McKean, Treasurer of ISHOF recognized Mayor Dean Trantalis of Fort Lauderdale with a special award (a replica of the 27M High Dive Tower) at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce: Salute to Business led by Dan Lindblade, President/CEO (see attached Program Billfold). The Salute to Business Gala honors titans of industry in various industries throughout Broward County. The event draws more than 400 people each year. Matt personally thanked Mayor Dean for supporting the mission for the new International Swimming Hall of Fame history and all of its life-saving programs moving forward. This includes our exciting top-to-bottom transformation, recently approved by the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Over 330,000 sq ft will be spread out over two buildings and six floors that bookend the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center with its new 27-meter dive tower and competition pools, creating a work-play-swim campus that is connective and more immersive for visitors. This project will transform the area, making it a magnet for education, recreation, culture, sport and cement Fort Lauderdale as the swimming and diving capital of the world.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that we also presented this award to Commissioner Steve Glassman at the International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on September 29th. Commissioner Glassman serves on the ISHOF Board and is a fierce advocate for us.
Thank you, Commissioner Glassman and Thank you Mayor Dean.
Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce’s Salute to Business’s Program Billfold attachment:
Have you considered donating to ISHOF on GIVING TUESDAY? Today it the day!!!
What is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday, often described as a global day of giving or a global generosity movement, is held each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. On Giving Tuesday 2021, nonprofits in the U.S. alone raised $2.7 billion.
To donate to ISHOF on Giving Tuesday, click on this link.
The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF), Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1965. Its museum is the “Official Repository for Aquatic History” as deemed by Fédération Internationalede Natation (FINA) – the governing body for Olympic aquatic sports.
Mission – To collaborate with aquatic organizations worldwide to preserve, educate and celebrate the history of aquatic sports while promoting Every Child A Swimmer.
Vision – To be the global focal point for sharing cultures, showcasing events, increasing participation in aquatic sports and developing educational and lesson programs that promote swimming as an essential life-skill.
ISHOF PAST
Ft. Lauderdale’s swimming heritage dates back to the Civitan raft off Las Olas Beach and the Olympic-sized Casino Pool which opened in 1928. In the early 1960’s, the city created the Swimming Hall of Fame non-profit organization. In 1965, a 50M pool and a 25Y diving well, as well as the original Hall of Fame museum were completed. Soon after, the City and the ISHOF organization joined together to build the West ISHOF museum building that opened in December of 1968. 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”. By 1985, it was estimated that the ISHOF brought $20M annual economic impact to the City which encouraged an expansion of the museum. This coupled with the prestige of the aquatic facilities brought world class swim events and athletes to compete at the aquatic complex whereby increasing ISHOF’s worldwide visibility.
ISHOF PRESENT
In 2020, the City committed $46 Million to the renovation of the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center. The City also approved the replacement of the south administration building and locker rooms, along with the construction of a 27-meter high dive tower. This will be the only tower of its kind in the western hemisphere. This renovation of the aquatic center will undoubtedly bring the facility back to its world class competition status and reestablish Fort Lauderdale as the premier location for competitive aquatic sports, not just in the United States but around the world.
ISHOF FUTURE
Our vision includes: an architecturally stunning building that will house a fully updated and modern display of aquatics sports history; two event spaces with 360° views of the intracoastal, aquatic center and Atlantic Ocean; a café; a restaurant; a library; teaching pool; welcome center; meeting rooms and office space; and on-site parking. In addition, ISHOF’s vision is to launch a brand-new website that will include a virtual museum that will showcase the hundreds of thousands of artifacts to viewers worldwide.
USA Swimming hosts 20th Annual Golden Goggle Awards in L.A.: Katie Ledecky, Kate Douglass Tie For Female Swimmer of Year; Ryan Murphy Prevails
Photo Courtesy: John Lohn
by DAN D’ADDONA — SWIMMING WORLD MANAGING EDITOR
19 November 2023, 07:58pm
USA Swimming honored this year’s best at the 20th Annual Golden Goggle Awards on Sunday, Nov. 19, at the J.W. Marriott at L.A. in Los Angeles.
The Golden Goggle Awards nominations are based on the year’s top accomplishments by American swimmers, focusing primarily on the World Aquatics Championships – Fukuoka 2023. The U.S. team finished the pool meet with 38 medals (7g, 20s, 11b) – 13 more than any other competing federation and earning Team of the Meet distinction.
The show was hosted by Summer Sanders and Elizabeth Beisel and began with an introduction of the worlds team.
Male Race of the Year – Bobby Finke
Bobby Finke won the Golden Goggle Award for male race of the year. At worlds, he broke the American record in the 1500 freestyle to earn the silver medal. It is the third straight race of the year honor for Finke.
The other nominees were Ryan Murphy in the 100 backstroke and Jack Alexy in the 100 free.
Female Race of the Year – Katie Grimes
Katie Grimes won the Female Race of the Year award after taking bronze in the 10K open water race to clinch a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The other nominees were Katie Ledecky in the 1500 free and Kate Douglass in the 200 IM.
Breakout Swimmer of the Year – Jack Alexy
Jack Alexy was named Breakout Swimmer of the Year. He won a pair of silver medals in the sprint freestyle events at worlds and was also part of a couple of U.S. relays.
The other nominees were Thomas Heilman, Katie Grimes and Dare Rose.
Relay of the Year – Gretchen Walsh, Lilly King, Kate Douglass and Regan Smith
The Relay of the Year Golden Goggle award went to the women’s 400 medley relay that won the gold medal behind Gretchen Walsh, Lilly King, Kate Douglass and Regan Smith, along with prelim swimmers Abbey Weitzeil and Lydia Jacoby.
The other nominees were the men’s medley relay and the women’s 800.
Foundation Impact Awards – Tim and Jennifer Buckley
Tim and Jennifer Buckley were named as recipients of the Impact Award by the USA Swimming Foundation as mentors.
Coaching Impact Award – Eddie Reese
The coaching impact award went to longtime Texas and Team USA coach Eddie Reese.
“Awards aren’t really my thing – you guys are my thing,” Reese said.
Coach of the Year – Dave Durden
Dave Durden of Cal was named Coach of the Year. He coached six athletes at the World Championships that combined for 20 medals, including relay spots.
The other nominees were Todd DeSorbo, Bob Bowman, Anthony Nesty and Ron Aitken.
Perseverance Award – Lydia Jacoby
The Golden Goggle Award for perseverance went to Lydia Jacoby. After a breakout Olympic year, Jacoby struggled with depression and mental health issues and has fought through to return to the world’s top stage, earning the bronze medal in the 100 breaststroke at worlds.
“This means so much. We all struggle. Missing that team in 2022 felt like the end of the world, but … it was the beginning of a new one, Jacoby said.
New mom Ashley Twichell was the other nominee.
Alumni Award – Lenny Krayzelburg
This inaugural award for alumni who give back to the sport after retirement went to Lenny Krayzelburg.
Fran Crippen Open Water Award – Katie Grimes
The Open Water Swimmer of the Year award that honors the late Fran Crippen was awarded to Katie Grimes, who won the bronze in the 10K to qualify for Paris.
The other nominee was Mariah Denigan.
Male Swimmer of the Year – Ryan Murphy
Ryan Murphy was named Male Swimmer of the Year. He won four medals in Fukuoka, including gold in the 100 backstroke and silver in the 200 backstroke.
The other nominees were Bobby Finke, Jack Alexy and Carson Foster.
Female Swimmer of the Year
The final award of the night was the Female Swimmer of the Year and it was a tie, going to Katie Ledecky and
Kate Douglass.
Ledecky won world titles in the 1500 free and 800 free, the latter for the record sixth time.
Meanwhile, Douglass earned six medals in Fukuoka, tied for the most. She won gold in the 200 IM.
The other nominees were Katie Grimes and Regan Smith.
Photo Courtesy: John Lohn
Honoring the Life of a Synchronized Swimming Legend ~ Sue Ahlf ~ 2003 ISHOF Paragon Winner
BY USA ARTISTIC SWIMMING
Sue Ahlf’s interest with synchronized swimming began in 1946 at the Athens Club in Oakland, California when Betty Brandlein and Hall of Famer Dawn Bean sparked her excitement. She became a volunteer with the U.S. Synchronized Swimming Pacific Association. In 1955, Sue founded the Soltau Swim Club in Danville, California and became an official synchronized swimming judge. After several successful years, the club dissolved and she worked with the Howell Swim Team.
But in 1968, she founded the Walnut Creek (CA) Aquanuts. She coached the club until 1980 when she moved to Hawaii. To date, Walnut Creek has won 30 U.S. National Championships and is coached by her Hall of Fame daughter, Gail Emery. While in Hawaii, Sue introduced synchronized swimming to the islands and hosted two each Pan-Pacific Games, Far Western Meets and U.S. National Championships.
Sue is an internationally ranked judge, synchro clinician and manager for two U.S. junior national teams. She is now involved in Sacramento’s (CA) recreation league teaching the basics of synchronized swimming to more than 600 athletes each year. She holds a B.S. in Recreation Management from Cal State Hayward. Sue is a 1983 U.S.S.S. Hall of Fame inductee and a current member of the U.S.S.S. Board of Governors. She is a tireless volunteer who has devoted her life to the advancement of synchronized swimming.
Penny Lee Dean, EdD to receive the 2024 Poseidon Award
FORT LAUDERDALE –The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) will recognize Penny Lee Dean, EdDfor her high-level achievement in marathon swimming with the 2024 Poseidon Award. TheAward will be presented to Penny during the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame(IMSHOF) Induction and Award Ceremony on Saturday May 18th, 2024 in Cancun México.The Poseidon Award is presented annually by the International Swimming Hall of Fame tothe organization or individual for high level achievement from personal effort or initiative in afield of endeavor that contributes to the performance of marathon swimmers or to thedevelopment and status of Marathon Swimming to the world.
This year’s award honors Penny Lee Dean, EdD. She delivered high level achievements asa marathon swimmer: won 1 major (1979 World Professional Marathon SwimmingFederation) and other prestigious races, set 2 overall Catalina Channel speed records whichstill stand more than 40 years later, set overall English Channel speed record which stoodfor 16 years and female record which stood for 28 years.
Penny delivered high level achievements as an administrator: Catalina Channel SwimmingFederation – Founder, President more than 10 years and Historian/Board Member for morethan 40 years. Meet director for the 1984 USA Long Distance International Championshipsacross the Catalina Channel.
She delivered high level achievements as a coach: USA Swimming National Open WaterTeam Coach for twelve years (winning every competition) – taking teams to the 1991 PanPacific Championships; 1991 World Swimming Championships; 1982/1986/1990Windermere Championships; 1990 English Channel Race and 1984/1989 Catalina ChannelRaces.
She was inducted as an Honor Swimmer in the International Marathon Swimming Hall ofFame (IMSHOF) in 1980. The International Swimming Hall of Fame inducted Penny In 1996and presented her with the Buck Dawson Authors Award in 1998.
For additional information, please call Ned Denison in Ireland at (+353) 87-987-1573 or ISHOF at (+1 954) 462-6536, or visit https://ishof.org
Massimo Giuliani to Receive the 2024 Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award
FORT LAUDERDALE – The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) will
recognize Massimo Giuliani, for his extensive contributions to the administration of open
water swimming with the 2024 Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award.
The Award will be presented to Massimo during the International Marathon Swimming Hall of
Fame (IMSHOF) Induction and Award Ceremony in Cancun México on Saturday May 18th
2024. The Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award is presented annually
by the International Swimming Hall of Fame to the individual who has contributed the most to
the administration of open water swimming.
This year’s award recognizes Massimo Giuliani, an open water swimming administrator from
Italy. Following a successful coaching career (1994 FINA World Champion Team), Massimo
moved to administration to become the Open Water Team Manager for Italy from 1995 to
2020. During these years, Italy rose to the top three level of international programs –
winning the overall points competition in 5 different years. Under Massimo’s guidance and
leadership Italy has won 17 gold, 17 silver & 19 bronze at major International 10 km and 25
km events.
He also took on a senior role from 2019 to 2022 in LEN (European Swimming) as Technical
Open Water Swim Committee Secretary. Massimo served as the President of the Organizing
Committee of the 2012 European Open Water Championships and 2016 Junior Open Water
European Championships plus Competition Manager at European Open Water Swimming
Championships in Rome 2022.He was one of the youngest qualified swimming coaches in
Italy in 1985 and became the Italian 25 km Team Coach for the 1994 FINA World Championship
Team.
Massimo was inducted into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honor Coach in
2020.
Massimo Giuliani riceverà il premio Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award 2024
FORT LAUDERDALE – L’International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) riconoscerà
Massimo Giuliani, per il suo ampio contributo alla gestione del nuoto in acque libere, con il
premio Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award 2024. Il premio sarà
consegnato a Massimo durante la cerimonia di premiazione e di induzione dell’International
Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF) che si terrà a Cancun, in Messico, sabato 18
maggio 2024. Il premio Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award viene
assegnato annualmente dalla International Swimming Hall of Fame alla persona che ha
contribuito maggiormente alla gestione del nuoto in acque libere.
Quest’anno il premio è stato assegnato a Massimo Giuliani, amministratore del nuoto in
acque libere in Italia. Dopo una carriera di allenatore di successo (squadra campione del
mondo FINA 1994), Massimo è passato all’amministrazione diventando il responsabile della
squadra di nuoto in acque libere dell’Italia dal 1995 al 2020. Durante questi anni, l’Italia è
salita ai primi tre livelli dei programmi internazionali, vincendo la classifica generale in 5 anni
diversi. Sotto la guida e la direzione di Massimo, l’Italia ha vinto 17 ori, 17 argenti e 19
bronzi nei principali eventi internazionali di 10 e 25 km.
Dal 2019 al 2022 ha assunto anche un ruolo di responsabilità nella LEN (European
Swimming) come Segretario del Comitato Tecnico di Nuoto in acque libere. Massimo ha
ricoperto il ruolo di Presidente del Comitato Organizzatore dei Campionati Europei in acque
libere del 2012 e dei Campionati Europei Juniores in acque libere del 2016, nonché di
Competition Manager dei Campionati Europei di nuoto in acque libere di Roma 2022.
È stato uno dei più giovani allenatori di nuoto qualificati in Italia nel 1985 ed è diventato
l’allenatore della squadra italiana di 25 km per i campionati mondiali FINA del 1994.
Massimo è stato inserito nella International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame come Honor
Coach nel 2020.
For additional information, please call Ned Denison in Ireland at (+353) 87-987-1573 or
ISHOF at (+1 954) 462-6536, or visit https://ishof.org
Venerdì 17 novembre 2024
Massimo Giuliani riceverà il premio Irving Davids/Captain
Roger W. Wheeler Memorial 2024
FORT LAUDERDALE – L’International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) riconoscerà
Massimo Giuliani, per i suoi ampi contributi alla gestione del nuoto in acque libere, con il
premio Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award 2024. Il premio saràconsegnato a
Massimo durante la cerimonia di premiazione e di induzione dell’International
Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF) che si terrà a Cancun, in Messico, sabato 18
maggio 2024. Il premio Irving Davids/Captain Roger W. Wheeler Memorial Award viene
assegnato annualmente dalla International Swimming Hall of Fame alla persona che ha
contribuito maggiormente alla gestione del nuoto in acque libere.
Il premio di quest’anno è stato assegnato a Massimo Giuliani, amministratore del nuoto in
acque libere in Italia. Dopo una carriera di allenatore di successo (squadra campione del
mondo FINA 1994), Massimo è passato all’amministrazione diventando il responsabile della
squadra di nuoto in acque libere dell’Italia dal 1995 al 2020. Durante questi anni, l’Italia è
salita ai primi tre livelli dei programmi internazionali, vincendo la classifica generale in 5 anni
diversi. Sotto la guida e la direzione di Massimo, l’Italia ha vinto 17 ori, 17 argenti e 19
bronzi nei principali eventi internazionali di 10 e 25 km.
Dal 2019 al 2022 ha assunto anche un ruolo di responsabilità nella LEN (European
Swimming) come Segretario del Comitato Tecnico di Nuoto in acque libere. Massimo ha
ricoperto il ruolo di Presidente del Comitato Organizzatore dei Campionati Europei in acque
libere del 2012 e dei Campionati Europei Juniores in acque libere del 2016, nonché di
Competition Manager dei Campionati Europei di nuoto in acque libere di Roma 2022.
È stato uno dei più giovani allenatori di nuoto qualificati in Italia nel 1985 ed è diventato
l’allenatore della squadra italiana di 25 km per i campionati mondiali FINA del 1994.
Massimo è stato inserito nella International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame come Honor
Coach nel 2020.
ISHOF staff visits 2023 Honoree Sam Ramsamy in Durban, South Africa
Last month, ISHOF staff members Meg Keller-Marvin and Laurie Marchwinski visited 2023 ISHOF Honor Contributor, and World Aquatics first Vice President Sam Ramsamy, at his home in Durban, South Africa.
The girls were on a vacation in South Africa, sightseeing in Cape Town and Durban, spending a week on safari and visiting various other areas. For those who are interested, Meg and Laurie did the safari that ISHOF had been offering for bid/purchase for over five years now during the ISHOF Honoree Ceremony Silent Auction. The 6-day safari is located at the Zulu Nyala Game Lodge and Private Reserve in Hluhluwe, South Africa. It was a fabulous experience. Other ISHOF-er’s have also done the safari at Zulu Nyala, including Honorees Tom Gompf and Debbie Meyer, just in September. The Reserve is located three hours north and west of Durban.
If you have ever thought of taking a safari, we can highly recommend Zulu Nyala. It was the trip of a lifetime. Everything about it from A to Z was amazing. Each year at the Honoree Ceremony’s Silent Auction, we offer a two and four person safari to Zulu Nyala. It includes a six night stay, three meals a day, and two drives a day out in the bush (two hours each). If you want more information on the safari or Zulu Nyala, feel free to reach out Meg or Laurie or visit www.ZuluNyala.com and plan to bid next year!
After the safari, we went to Durban and met up with 2023, ISHOF Honoree Sam Ramsamy and his wife Helga, who took us out for a delicious Italian dinner in the Umhulunga Rocks area of Durban. We spent the evening chatting and laughing and learning more about Sam and his wife Helga. Sam and Helga lived in London for a number of years, among other places. One of the more interesting pieves of information, we learned about Helga, was that when she met Sam, she was a basketball player from East Germany. Once she and Sam married, she was able to leave the country.
Helga has travelled the world with Sam, whether it was with FINA, now World Aquatics, the Olympic Movement, fighting for the rights of athletes and people in South Africa. They have lived quite the busy and exciting life. We were fortunate to have spent the evening with them.
Calling for Nominations for Class of 2024 Honorees ~ Submit your nomination today!
It is that time of year again, when we ask for nominations from all disciplines and all countries. Each individual should have achieved tremendous success in the aquatic discipline(s) and/or made a significant impact on the sport of aquatics through their lifelong efforts. Nominations must be submitted along with supporting materials by December 15, 2023
Please submit your nomination via this link (below) and upload it to ishof.org
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdbWjNJq9cc0r3Jj5RePDhMmc8ToA1HX9fyjqFnNupU2FIAjQ/viewform
Nominations can be made by anyone in any of the following seven categories:
SWIMMER (includes Olympic, Masters, Marathon, Open Water and Pioneer Swimmers)
DIVER (includes Olympic, Masters and Pioneer Divers)
WATER POLO PLAYER (includes Olympic, Masters and Pioneer Water Polo Players)
ARTISTIC SWIMMER (includes Olympic, Masters and Pioneer Synchronized Swimmers)
PARALYMPIAN (includes only athletes at Paralympic Games)
COACH (Swimming, Diving, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Masters, Open Water & Marathon Swimming)
CONTRIBUTOR (Swimming, Diving, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Masters, Open Water & Marathon Swimming)
Nomination Forms
Nomination forms can be found on the ISHOF website. You can complete and submit the form online, or print the form and return it via email (meg@ishof.org), fax (954.525.4031) or snail mail (Meg Keller-Marvin, International Swimming Hall of Fame, 1 Hall of Fame Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316)
Requirements for Nomination
Each nominee must meet the following minimum criteria to appear on the ballot: (see full list of criteria)
Generally, athletes shall not be chosen unless retired from international competition at least four years, or at least one Olympic quadrennial. “Athletes” refers to swimmers, open water swimmers (FINA), divers, water polo players and artistic (synchronized) swimmers and paralympic swimmers. Masters and Marathon swimmers (Non-FINA) may be nominated without retirement after being inducted in their respective Hall of Fame and will be voted on by the same criteria as all other nominees.
Note that male and female candidates are grouped together, alphabetically. Male and female candidates should be voted upon as one combined group per category.
A coach must have a significant international record and have been coaching at least 25 years.
A contributor must have been in aquatics at least 20 years and have had a significant international impact. Athletic achievement should NOT be considered, contributions are to the overall improvement or development of “international” sport through leadership, journalism, invention or other area of great, outstanding impact.
The pioneer category was created to honor great achievements or advancements in aquatics that have been overlooked. These include special circumstances, such as interruptions caused by war or politics, barrier-breaking moments, societal changing events, etc.
All nominees must exemplify the highest athletic moral and ethical standards. Any past or current violations of the spirit and principles of Olympism, such as doping, DUI’s, domestic violence, drug abuse, accusations of sexual offense etc. have to be disclosed at the time of nomination. If and when ISHOF is presented with substantial or compelling evidence, a criminal charge, conviction or admission of guilt, the ISHOF board of Directors will consider all options within our means and resources that will enable us to ensure the integrity of our Hall of Fame.
Remember the key word – “international”. Emphasis should be placed on the international impact made by the nominee, not just within his or her own country.
Consideration should be given to athletes failing to participate in Olympics because of non-Olympic years due to war (1916, 1940, 1944), boycotts (1980, 1984) injury, career interruptions and non-Olympic events such as the individual medley (I.M.) prior to 1964, etc.
Important: Please provide contact information (email, phone, or address) of the person you are nominating and a high-resolution photo (either a photo you took or a photo that you own the rights to).
For more information please email Meg Keller-Marvin at meg@ishof.org or call 570.594.4367
For an alphabetical list of current inductees, please visit the ISHOF website.
About ISHOF
The International Swimming Hall of Fame, Inc. (ISHOF), established in 1965, is a not-for-profit educational organization located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. It was first recognized by FINA, the International Olympic Committee’s recognized governing body for the aquatic sports, in 1968. ISHOF’s mission is to collaborate with aquatic organizations worldwide to preserve, educate and celebrate history, showcase events, share cultures, and increase participation in aquatic sports.
ISHOF 58th Honoree Induction Ceremony brings out all the Aquatic Superstars and breaks record for largest Honoree Induction Ceremony
This year ISHOF hosted the 58th annual Honoree Induction Ceremony on Saturday, September 30, 2023 and it was a year of firsts. It was the first year ISHOF hosted 13 Honorees from eight different countries from around the globe! It was the first year we inducted an Honoree from Zimbabwe: The lovely KIRSTY COVENTRY, who is currently serving her country as the Honorable Minister of Youth Affair, Sport, Art and Recreation. Kirsty was inducted by Kim Brackin, her coach at Auburn University, when she swam here in the states during her University years. She was also supported by her Head Auburn Coach, David Marsh, ISHOF Honoree, who is currently coaching at CAL Berkeley.
Another first was ISHOF allowed the incoming Honorees to choose anyone they wanted to induct them. Typically, it must be an Honoree who inducts you, but because of television, we decided to change it up this year. And that brings us to another first: ESPN+. Thanks to producer Peter Lasser, ISHOF was able to live stream the Honoree Induction Ceremonies on ESPN+. Lasser’s resume includes everything from the Olympic Games to NCAA’s to United Football League. We have to thank Peter for his amazing talent and hard work, we think it was a FABULOUS show! If you have not seen it yet, it is available ON DEMAND on ESPN+ for the next 60 days.
One thing that was NOT a first was the five-time Olympian, twelve-time Olympic medalist, DARA TORRES, as our emcee. And she was outstanding! Dara was live for two hours and I think she may have been the best she has ever been! This may have been her fourth time emceeing for us, but she was without a doubt spectacular! Watch it for yourself and see!
CESAR CIELO, Honor Swimmer from Brazil was inducted as the first Honoree of the evening. He gave a heartfelt speech, thanking his parents for always being there for him, which included taking him to all his practices and going to all his meets… even though his events were so short! The life of a sprinter! Even if he was the best in the world! Cesar was inducted by his very first Coach Mario Sobrinho, who he said was with him all the way. Cesar was also accompanied from Brazil by his wife Kelly and his son.
In the world of Synchronized, now Artistic Swimming, the name CHRIS CARVER is known throughout the world and her induction, some say was long overdue. She began coaching in the 1970’s in Northern California and she took her group of 10 and under girls and coached them all the way to the top of the Olympic podium and to the gold medal. Not many coaches can say they did that! And two of those girls, now women, came to her induction Saturday night, ISHOF Honorees themselves, BECKY DYROEN LANCER and JILL SUDDITH SMITH. Chris was inducted by her longtime friend, ISHOF Honoree and Coach, GAIL EMERY.
Like Artistic Swimming, Water Polo is one of the hardest sports to play. But unlike Artistic Swimming, Water Polo only recently became a sport for women and an Olympic sport for women in 2000. Chris Carver may have had the largest number of attendees there to support her, but HEATHER PETRI, easily had the loudest cheering section. Petri is a four-time Olympian, 2000-2012, and her teammates showed their love and support once she got on stage. Petri had friend and fellow teammate Nicolle Payne induct her on Saturday night. Payne was a member of the 2000 and 2004 Olympic team, playing goalkeeper along with Petri.
We’ve seen some the greatest of their sport, but then there is always the favorite. MISSY FRANKLIN couldn’t help but be the favorite with her beautiful smile that lights up a room, her kindness and willingness to stop and say hello, sign an autograph or take a photo. And then she gets in the pool and swims out of her mind. In London, she came away with five medals, four gold and one bronze and grabbed one more four years later in Rio. Missy will always be that girl with that smile. Always the favorite. Missy was inducted by her Dad, Richard Franklin.
STÉPHANE LECAT was inducted this year as our 2023 Honor Open Water Swimmer. Lecat currently leads the French Open Water Team for his country and has been quite successful at it. Of course he had quite the resume himself as a swimmer. Lecat had quite the contingency accompany him from France, about 15 in all. His friend, Pierre Guirard was with him to induct him into ISHOF.
Is he the greatest breaststroker of all-time? One could certainly make that argument! KOSUKE KITAJIMA won back to back double gold medals in 2004 and 2008 in the 100 and 200-meter breaststroke. Four gold medals. Kitajima was quiet and humble, but smiled and took photos with everyone. He had an interpreter for his speech, yet he seemed to speak English fairly well. 1984 Olympic gold medalist in the 100-meter breaststroke (and 400 medley relay), Steve Lundquist was on hand to induct Kitajima. Almost as impressive as his back to back golds, was that Kitajima flew all the way into Fort Lauderdale from Tokyo for 24 hours!! He arrived Saturday morning, and departed Sunday morning… Now that’s a feat!
BOB BOWMAN is considered one of the greatest coaches in swimming, ranking right up there with greats, George Haines and Doc Counsilman. Maybe better, who can say. The great thing for Bob’s induction was he was able to be inducted with not only his most successful swimmer, but also the swimmer he is closest with and considers family, Michael Phelps. So, the whole “family” in addition to a host of family and friends were in attendance to support Bowman’s induction into ISHOF. Bob currently coaches at Arizona State University where he has turned the program around to win its first Pac-12 Championship in the school history this past Spring.
MICHAEL PHELPS being inducted with his Coach BOB BOWMAN was great for both of them. This way they could induct one another, as no one could have possibly meant more in their careers. Bob talking about the blended family where Michael’s kids call him Grandpa was a touching note. And everyone got even more more excited when MP announced that Nicole will be adding their fourth boy to the Phelps family soon. In addition to Bob, Michael’s mother Debbie, and wife Nicole, came out to help induct him.
SAM RAMSAMY of Durban, South Africa was inducted on Saturday evening as this year’s Honor Contributor for ISHOF. Ramsamy is the First Vice President for World Aquatics and spent his life working toward the birth of a new South Africa, as well as fighting for the eradication of the color ban in sport, advocating for the selection of teams based on merit and not the color of one’s skin. Ramsamy was also friend to South African leader Nelson Mandela, where he was part of the organizing committee for his inauguration. We were honored to have Sam join us all the way from Durban with his busy schedule. Dale Neuburger, friend and Treasurer of World Aquatics was on hand to induct Mr. Sam Ramsamy.
TRISCHA ZORN has twice as many medals than any other Olympian or Paralympian that has ever competed. Let that sink in for a minute. Yes, that means twice as many as Michael Phelps. Trischa’s first Paralympic Games was in 1980 and she continued competing through 2004. An astounding 24 years! More than her medals though, Trischa is happier with what she has accomplished out of the pool, pushing boundaries and creating firsts for all Paralympians. After college, Trischa attended law school, and she now works for the VA, helping Veterans. And tonight she is the first Paralympian to ever be inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Trischa was inducted by her coach, Richard Wolford, and joined by her proud husband, Brian Hudson.
All in all, the 58th annual induction was a great event. If you were not able to attend in person, remember, you can watch it on ESPN+ on demand through the beginning of December.
We want to give a big shout and thank you to all who worked so hard to make this event such a success: The Group from Team Horner, Maria de le Pena, Colby Coppola, Kim Guerrera and their Marketing crew, Edison and Nina Rumbos, Kim Kent, Diane McMillen, Casey McGovern and all the staff at Horner who worked on this. A special thank you to John Lohn who helped with a lot of the writing and proofing, and to Lee Gladstone and Jim Stump for the video work. It turned out fabulous. And especially to our brother, historian and curator, Bruce Wigo, you not only are an amazing historian, but if the sports networks ever see you live, we’re going to lose you for sure!! You did an absolutely fabulous job filling in when Dara was off stage. You definitely missed your calling! Thank you to the ISHOF Board of Directors, including Bill Kent, Mike Dooley, Steve Hasty, David Arluck…..some of you helped in different ways, and we appreciate what you did to help make this event come together. And to all of those who we may have forgotten, thank you for your help in making this weekend a success.
A very special thank you to two men who helped behind the scenes and made things happen and without whom I don’t think this induction would have been as successful as it was. Mike Unger and Alex Blavatnik. Alex, your generosity knows no bounds and I hope one day, you can become a member of the ISHOF Board again. And Mike, your friendship and dedication to the sport of swimming and all of aquatics is something that we all benefit from. Thank you.
Thank you to those of you who donated to the Silent Auction, without you, we would not have a silent auction! We had so many great items this year, thank to so many. Again thank you to everyone at Horner, Maria and her crew, Kim, Diane, Brandi West, Cullen Jones, Mary T., the Atlanta Braves, Matt Lois, and so many others that help make it a success every year!
And lastly, a very special thank you to the City of Fort Lauderdale, to Mayor Dean Trantalis and Commissioner Steve Glassman, our partners in aquatics, as well as Laura Voet, the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center Manager. Without the City’s support, we could not do what we do, or move on to the next exciting phase of ISHOF, which we are all looking forward to.
We bid you fairwell, until next Fall; Get your nominations in, so we can make sure your favorite swimmers and other aquatic athletes are on the ISHOF ballot for 2023/2024 and have a chance to be voted on for the ISHOF Class of 2024!
Stats of 2023 ISHOF Induction Class Are Surreal: 51 Olympic Medals (See Numbers Here)
by JOHN LOHN – EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
A By the Numbers Look at the 2023 International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Class of Just the Swimmers
An exceptional group of athletes was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame this past weekend in Fort Lauderdale. The five swimmers who were enshrined at the 58th annual ceremony represent one of the finest classes in history, headlined by Michael Phelps, the greatest athlete the sport has produced.
Joining Phelps for induction are Japan’s Kosuke Kitajima, the United States’ Missy Franklin, Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry and Brazil’s Cesar Cielo. All are Olympic champions with multiple Olympic medals earned during their illustrious careers.
Here is a by-the-numbers look at the five swimmers set for Hall of Fame induction.
This year’s honorees combined to claim 51 Olympic medals, including 35 that were gold. Phelps leads the way with 28 medals while Coventry and Kitajima each secured seven medals in Olympic competition. Franklin won six Olympic medals, including five gold, and Cielo was a three-time Olympic medalist.
From World Championships (long course) competition, the 2023 class tallied 76 medals. Of that total, 49 were gold. Phelps (26) and Franklin (11) each reached double figures for their gold-medal counts.
Between the long-course pool and short-course pool, this fall’s inductees combined to set 55 world records. Individually, the only world record that remains is Cielo’s mark of 20.91 in the 50-meter freestyle, set at the 2009 World Championships.
From the Pan Pacific Championships, this class combined for 35 medals, highlighted by 21 titles.
In total, these honorees have appeared in 18 Olympic Games.
Of the events on the Olympic program, this quintet set at least one world record in every discipline except the 400 freestyle, 800 freestyle and 1500 freestyle.