Biography:
Satoko Tanaka (田中 聡子, Tanaka Satoko, born February 3, 1942) is a retired Japanese backstroke swimmer. She was born on the island of Kyushu, Japan in 1942 and battled childhood bronchitis and beriberi to become one of the world’s greatest 200-meter backstrokers of her time.
Tanaka made her international debut at the 1958 Asian Games, where she set a Japanese record in the 100-meter backstroke with a time of 1:15.1. Two years later, she represented Japan at the 1960 Olympics in Rome and captured the bronze medal in the 100-meter backstroke, finishing with a time of 1:11.4. Although she had success in the 100-meter backstroke, the 200-meter backstroke was her strongest event.
Between 1959 and September 1964, Tanaka set 10 world records in the 200-meter backstroke, continuously lowering the time. After Lynn Burke briefly took the title in 1960, Tanaka reclaimed it only 8 days later. Her new record stood for another 4 years. Unfortunately, the 200-meter backstroke was not an Olympic event for women in Rome or Tokyo, so Tanaka never won an Olympic gold medal.
Tanaka held the Japanese national record in the 200-meter backstroke from 1958 to 1970 and the 100-meter backstroke for a total of 12 years. She captured a total of 15 world records in the 200-meter, 110-yard, and 220-yard backstroke events, showcasing her dominance in the backstroke discipline.
In addition to her accomplishments in the pool, Tanaka has been an influential figure off the deck as well. After retiring from competitive swimming, she embarked on a career as a swimming coach for Shinnihon Iron Manufacture, where she teaches special swimming programs for asthmatics. Her dedication to the sport and her desire to help others overcome challenges has left a lasting impact on the swimming community.
Even in her later years, Tanaka continued to swim and compete. She joined her local Masters Team, demonstrating her enduring passion for the sport that defined her life. It is through her perseverance and determination that she has become a role model for aspiring athletes, especially women, in Japan and around the world.
Satoko Tanaka’s achievements in the world of swimming have not gone unnoticed. In 1991, she was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame, a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to the sport. Her record-breaking performances and dedication to coaching have made her a legendary figure in the history of swimming, earning her a place in women’s sports history.
Awards:
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1991.