Born: 1966
Biography:
Tiffany Lisa Cohen, born on June 11, 1966, is an American former swimmer who made significant contributions to the sport during her career. She gained recognition as a double gold medalist at the 1984 Summer Olympics, securing victories in both the 400-meter and 800-meter freestyle events. Cohen is known not only for her exceptional swimming abilities but also for her devout Jewish faith.
In 1982, Cohen showcased her talent by winning the U.S. National Championship in three different events: the 500-, 1,000-, and 1650-yard freestyle races. She also impressed on the international stage by finishing third in the 400-meter freestyle at the FINA World Aquatics Championships. This achievement displayed her ability to compete at the highest level and earn a place among the world’s elite swimmers.
Continuing her success, Cohen had a remarkable performance at the 1986 championships. She triumphed in the 400- and 800-meter freestyle events, solidifying her position as one of the top swimmers in the world. Additionally, she showcased her versatility by winning the 200-meter butterfly.
Unfortunately, Cohen’s swimming career came to an end in 1987, following a stellar performance at the national outdoor meet where she finished second to Janet Evans in both the 400- and 800-meter races. Despite her retirement, Cohen’s impact on the world of swimming would be long-lasting.
In recognition of her remarkable achievements, Tiffany Cohen was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honor Swimmer in 1996. This prestigious honor acknowledged her contributions to the sport and solidified her status as one of the all-time greats in swimming history.
Motivated by a competitive spirit and determination to succeed, Cohen faced intense competition throughout her career. At the time, Australian swimmer Tracy Wickham held all the world records in the 400-meter, 800-meter, and 1500-meter freestyle events, making the competition even fiercer. However, Cohen’s tenacity and ability to rise to the occasion set her apart. Her coach, Mark Schubert, praised her ability to perform when it mattered most, saying, Tiffany has that great ability to rise to the occasion when the gun goes off.
Cohen’s swimming journey began in 1980 when she joined the Mission Viejo Swim Team. Within a year, she competed in her first U.S. Nationals and emerged victorious in the 400-meter freestyle, marking the start of an extraordinary career. Over the years, she went on to win a remarkable fourteen U.S. National Championships in the 400-meter, 800-meter, 1000-yard, and 1500-meter freestyle events.
One of Cohen’s early international successes came in 1982 at the World Championships in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where she won the bronze medal in the 400-meter freestyle. This achievement was particularly notable as she finished behind East German swimmers Carmela Schmidt and Petra Schneider. The following year, Cohen continued to make her mark on the international stage by clinching gold medals at both the Caracas Pan American Games and the Pan Pacific Championships, triumphing in the 400-meter and 800-meter freestyle events.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Cohen’s leadership and positive attitude set an example for both her competitors and those who knew her personally. She demonstrated a genuine passion for helping others and exhibited a burning desire to succeed in all areas of life.
In 1984, Cohen was primed to take on the world at the Olympic Games. However, due to the East German boycott, her highly anticipated head-to-head competition against Astrid Strauss did not materialize. Regardless, Cohen put up a remarkable performance, setting an American record in the 400-meter freestyle and an Olympic record in the 800-meter freestyle. Her triumphs at the Games solidified her place in history as one of the most accomplished swimmers of her time.
Tiffany Cohen’s impact extends beyond her personal achievements. She played a significant role in women’s history by breaking barriers and inspiring others with her remarkable talent and unwavering dedication. Her contributions to the world of swimming and her influential presence continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
Awards:
– Gold Medalist at the 1984 Summer Olympics in the 400-meter freestyle
– Gold Medalist at the 1984 Summer Olympics in the 800-meter freestyle
– Bronze Medalist at the 1982 World Aquatics Championships in the 400-meter freestyle
– Gold Medalist at the 1983 Pan American Games in the 400-meter freestyle
– Gold Medalist at the 1983 Pan American Games in the 800-meter freestyle
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame as an Honor Swimmer in 1996