Born: 1966 (Leipzig, Bezirk Leipzig, East Germany)
Biography:
Kristin Otto (German pronunciation: [ˈkʁɪstɪn ˈʔɔtoː] (listen); born 7 February 1966) is a German Olympic swimming champion. She is most famous for being the first woman to win six gold medals at a single Olympic Games, doing so at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. In long course, she held the world records in the 100 meter and 200 meter freestyle events. Otto was also the first woman to swim the short course 100 meter backstroke in under a minute, doing so at an international short course meet at Indiana University in 1983.
Kristin Otto was born in Leipzig, Bezirk Leipzig (present-day Sachsen), East Germany, and began swimming at the age of 11, training in an East German sports academy. Despite starting her swimming career relatively late, Otto showed remarkable talent and determination. At sixteen, she participated in her first world championships, the 1982 World Aquatics Championships, winning the gold medal in the 100 meter backstroke as well as two additional gold medals in the 4×100 m relays with the East German team.
After her impressive debut, Otto decided to change coaches and shift her focus to other speed strokes. This decision led her to the 1983 European Championships, where she finished second in the 100 meter freestyle, following her fellow East German, Birgit Meineke. The following year, Otto set a world record in the 200 meter freestyle, solidifying her position as a rising star in international swimming.
However, Otto’s dreams of Olympic glory were shattered in 1984 when she was unable to compete at the Los Angeles Olympic Games due to the boycott by 14 Eastern Bloc countries, including East Germany. This setback did not deter her determination, and she continued to train and compete relentlessly.
In 1985, Otto faced another obstacle when she fractured a vertebra, keeping her out of competition for most of the year and preventing her from participating in the European Championships. Despite this setback, Otto made a triumphant return to swimming at the 1986 World Championships in Madrid, where she won an impressive four gold medals and two silver medals.
Her success continued the following year at the 1987 European Championships, where she secured five gold medals, solidifying her status as one of the greatest swimmers of her generation.
Finally, in 1988, at the Seoul Olympic Games, Otto had her long-awaited opportunity to shine on the Olympic stage. She once again dominated the competition, winning an unprecedented six gold medals and setting Olympic records in the 50 meter freestyle and 100 meter butterfly.
Otto retired from competitive swimming in 1989, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Her unparalleled talent, determination, and success have ensured her place in swimming history.
Today, Kristin Otto continues to contribute to the world of swimming as a sports reporter for German television. She remains an inspiration to aspiring swimmers around the world, proof that hard work and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Awards:
– Olympic Gold Medalist (1988 Seoul Olympic Games): 6 gold medals
– World Record Holder: 100 meter freestyle, 200 meter freestyle (long course)
– European Champion (1987): 5 gold medals
– World Champion (1986): 4 gold medals, 2 silver medals