Born: 1982 (Brisbane, Queensland)
Biography:
Kate Maree Gynther (born 5 July 1982) is an Australian water polo player. She is known for her exceptional skills and contributions to the sport, representing Australia as a member of the women’s senior national team at three consecutive Summer Olympics. Throughout her career, Gynther has achieved numerous accomplishments, faced challenges, and made a lasting impact on women’s water polo.
Born in July 1982 in Brisbane, Queensland, Gynther discovered her passion for water polo at a young age. With the support of her family, she pursued her dreams and eventually became one of Australia’s leading water polo players. Her step-sisters, Rebecca Rippon and Melissa Rippon, both played for the Australian women’s national water polo team, further contributing to Gynther’s inspiration and commitment to the sport.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Gynther also serves as a Detective Senior Constable in the Queensland Police Service, showcasing her dedication to both sports and public service. Her exceptional work ethic and determination are evident in her role as a police officer, where she continues to make a positive impact in her community.
Gynther’s water polo career is characterized by numerous achievements and accolades. She holds the distinction of being the leading goalscorer in Olympic water polo history, with an impressive 30 goals across three Olympic Games. Her contributions were instrumental in securing bronze medals for the Australian team at both the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics.
Furthermore, Gynther’s speed and agility in the water make her a formidable opponent. In the 2012 Olympics, she was recognized as the joint top sprinter, winning 21 sprints, and she holds the title of being one of the leading sprinters in Olympic water polo history, with a total of 39 sprints won.
On the club level, Gynther plays for the Brisbane Barracudas in the National Water Polo League. She has been an integral part of the team, competing in multiple seasons and contributing to their success. In 2011, she played a pivotal role in securing the league championship for the third consecutive year. Her exceptional performance in the championship match, which ended in a tie and went to a shootout, earned her the title of female player of the finals series.
Gynther’s talent and dedication extend beyond her club and national team responsibilities. She represented Australia in various international competitions, including the 2005 World Championships held in Canada. During the tournament, she scored a crucial goal in Australia’s 9-2 victory over the Netherlands in the semi-finals. Additionally, Gynther was part of the Australian team that won a bronze medal at the FINA World League Super Finals in Kirishi, Russia in 2005.
Throughout her career, Gynther has been a role model and an inspiration to aspiring water polo players, especially young women. Her achievements in the sport, coupled with her dedication to public service, highlight her commitment to excellence both in and out of the water. Gynther’s contributions to women’s water polo and her impact on society make her a true pioneer and a source of pride for Australia.
Awards:
– Bronze Medal at the 2005 Super League Finals
– Bronze Medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics
– Bronze Medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics