Born: 1909
Died: 1998
Biography:
Eleanor A. Garatti, later known as Eleanor Saville, was an American competition swimmer, Olympic gold medalist, and former world record-holder. She was born on July 12, 1909, and passed away on September 9, 1998.
Born in the early 20th century, Eleanor Saville made a lasting impact on the world of swimming. She first gained international recognition when she represented the United States at the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam. At the young age of 19, she competed in the 100-meter freestyle and the 4×100-meter freestyle relay.
In the 100-meter freestyle event, Eleanor showcased her incredible talent and determination, winning a silver medal. This achievement alone would have been noteworthy, but she didn’t stop there. Eleanor also became the first woman to win two Olympic medals in the 100-meter freestyle, as she secured a bronze medal in the same event.
However, Eleanor’s true contributions came as a member of the American relay team. She was the only team member to compete at both the 1928 and 1932 Olympics. In both competitions, the U.S. relay team won the gold medal and broke the world record in the process.
Eleanor Saville continued to push the boundaries of swimming after the Olympics. In 1929, she set yet another world record, this time in the individual 100-meter freestyle. Her outstanding achievement was becoming the first woman to swim under 1:10.
Her exceptional skills and achievements did not go unnoticed. Eleanor was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame as an honor swimmer in 1992, a testament to her enduring impact on the sport. Additionally, in 2000, she was elected to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing her as a pioneer in swimming.
Eleanor Saville’s influence extended beyond her exceptional swimming career. She inspired numerous athletes to pursue their Olympic dreams and served as a role model for generations of women in sports. Her dedication, resilience, and achievements shattered societal expectations and paved the way for future female athletes.
In honor of her contribution to the swimming community, the Eleanor Garatti-Saville Fund was established. Created through a bequest from her sister, Dora Hartford, the fund provides stipends to Olympic hopefuls, supporting their training and development. The inaugural grants of $5,000 each were awarded to three aquatic athletes in 2010, ensuring Eleanor’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of swimmers.
Eleanor Saville’s impact on women’s history cannot be overstated. Through her remarkable skills and trailblazing spirit, she forever changed the landscape of women’s swimming and inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity.
Awards:
– Olympic Gold Medal (1928, 1932)
– Silver Medal in the 100-meter freestyle (1928)
– Bronze Medal in the 100-meter freestyle (1928)
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame (1992)
– Elected to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame (2000)
– Eleanor Garatti-Saville Fund (established in her name)