Born: 1953
Biography:
Susanne Jean Atwood, born on June 5, 1953, is a notable American former competition swimmer, two-time Olympic medalist, and former world record-holder. Atwood’s early success in swimming marked the beginning of a remarkable career that influenced women’s history in sports.
At the age of 15, Atwood represented the United States at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Competing in the preliminary heats of the women’s 200-meter backstroke, she demonstrated her talent by recording a time of 2:35.2. Although she did not advance in the competition, her participation at such a young age foreshadowed her future achievements.
Three years later, Atwood made a splash at the 1971 Pan American Games in Cali, Colombia, where she cemented her status as a rising star. She captured three medals, including silver in both the 100-meter and 200-meter backstroke events, as well as a bronze in the 400-meter individual medley. Her outstanding performance showcased her versatility and established her as a formidable competitor on the international stage.
In the build-up to the 1972 US Olympic Trials, Atwood held the world record in the 200-meter backstroke with an impressive time of 2:21.5. Although her record would eventually be broken by Melissa Belote at the trials and again by Belote in Munich, Atwood’s achievement showcased her prowess and set the stage for what was to come.
At the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, Atwood’s hard work and determination culminated in two well-deserved medals. In the women’s 200-meter backstroke, she claimed the silver medal with a time of 2:20.38, finishing behind her compatriot Melissa Belote, who set a new world-record time in the event with 2:19.19. Further adding to her Olympic success, Atwood secured a bronze medal in the women’s 100-meter backstroke, coming in behind Belote and Hungarian swimmer Andrea Gyarmati.
Additionally, Atwood’s contribution extended beyond individual events. She played a crucial role as the backstroke leg for the winning U.S. team in the preliminary heats of the women’s 4×100-meter medley relay. Although she did not swim in the event final, her efforts helped position the team for success. Unfortunately, under the Olympic swimming rules in effect in 1972, she was ineligible to receive a medal in the medley relay.
After retiring from competitive swimming, Atwood transitioned to coaching and became the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes women’s swimming and diving team in 1977. Her experience and expertise further contributed to the development of young swimmers and perpetuated the legacy of women’s participation in sports.
In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Susie Atwood was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honor Swimmer in 1992. Her dedication, talent, and perseverance not only brought her personal success but also had a lasting impact on women’s swimming, inspiring future generations of athletes to strive for excellence in the sport.
Awards:
– Silver Medal, 1972 Summer Olympics – Women’s 200-meter Backstroke
– Bronze Medal, 1972 Summer Olympics – Women’s 100-meter Backstroke
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honor Swimmer in 1992.