Born: 1968 (United States)
Biography:
Kristen Elizabeth Babb-Sprague was born on July 29, 1968, in the United States. She is a former synchronized swimmer who made significant contributions to the sport. Babb-Sprague’s incredible career and achievements have made her a prominent figure in women’s sports history.
From a young age, Babb-Sprague had a passion for the water. Inspired by her older sister Lisa and her mother, who were part of the Walnut Creek Aquanuts team, she joined the team at the age of six. Over the years, she honed her skills and became a product of the U.S. synchro’s development program, under the guidance of influential coaches Sue Ahlet and Gail Emery.
Babb-Sprague’s career faced a major setback in 1989 when she suffered a career-threatening back injury. Determined to overcome this obstacle, she took a year-long break from the sport to recover. Her resilience and determination paid off when she made a stunning comeback, winning three consecutive national solo titles and two national team titles.
However, it was at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona where Babb-Sprague truly made her mark. In the women’s solo event, a scoring scandal unfolded during the technical figures routine. A Brazilian judge accidentally entered a lower score for the Canadian swimmer Sylvie Fréchette, allowing Babb-Sprague to win the competition. Fréchette’s medal was eventually upgraded to gold, but Babb-Sprague was allowed to retain hers.
Babb-Sprague’s victory at the Olympics was a testament to her exceptional talent and determination. She was the first athlete ever to earn perfect scores in artistic impression at the Olympics for her modern and innovative routines. Her performances captivated audiences and showcased the artistry and athleticism of synchronized swimming.
In addition to her Olympic success, Babb-Sprague achieved numerous other accolades and accomplishments throughout her career. She won gold medals at the 1991 World Championships in both the team and solo events, as well as gold medals at the Pan Pacific Championships in 1991. Babb-Sprague also represented the United States in various FINA World Cup competitions, winning multiple gold and silver medals.
Outside of her competitive career, Babb-Sprague was a popular figure in the advertising world. She was featured in print campaigns for renowned brands such as Speedo and Max Factor, appearing in magazines like Rolling Stone, New Women, and McCalls.
Babb-Sprague’s impact on synchronized swimming and women’s sports cannot be overstated. Her resilience, talent, and groundbreaking performances have inspired generations of female athletes. She paved the way for future synchronswimmers to push the boundaries of the sport and showcase its artistry to the world.
Today, Babb-Sprague is married to Ed Sprague, a former Major League Baseball player. Together, they continue to support and promote the development of sports and athletics.
Awards:
– 1992 Olympic Games: Gold Medal (solo)
– 1986 World Championships: Silver Medal (team)
– 1991 World Championships: Gold Medal (team), Silver Medal (solo)
– 1991 Pan Pacific Championships: Gold Medal (solo, team)
– 1987 Pan American Games: Gold Medal (team)
– II FINA World Cup: Silver Medal (team)
– III FINA World Cup: Gold Medal (team)
– V FINA World Cup: Gold Medal (team), Silver Medal (solo)
– U.S. National Championships: 4 Gold Medals (solo), 1 Gold Medal (duet), 8 Gold Medals (team)
– 1982 Japan International Age Group: Gold Medal (solo, 13-14 category)