The Inspiring Journeys of Black Swimmers in the Olympics
Every champion’s journey begins with a single splash. Whether it’s a child’s first swimming lesson or an adult overcoming water anxiety, the path to swimming excellence starts with basic skills and supportive instruction in an inclusive environment.
As we celebrate Black History Month at WeAquatics, we’re inspired by stories of Black swimmers and coaches who have experienced remarkable achievements. And it all began with their passion for swimming— but first their parents’ insistence on swimming lessons!
With proper instruction, dedication, and support, the path to swimming greatness is open to everyone.
The Power of Early Swim Education
Photo Credit: USA Swimming
“Swimming is the only sport that is also a life-saving skill,” says Maritza Correia McClendon, the first Black female Olympic swimmer to represent the United States in 2004.
Her parents’ belief in water safety and enrolling her in basic swim lessons led her to become a three-time world champion and Olympic silver medalist.
This fundamental truth drives many champions’ origin stories.
Finding Your Voice in the Water
Simone Manuel’s journey to becoming the first Black woman to win individual Olympic gold in swimming began with a question: “Hey, Mom, where are all the people who look like me?” At age 12, Manuel faced doubts that many young Black swimmers encounter.
“I had to summon the strength I borrowed from those who came before me,” Manuel reflects. “People don’t always like ‘different’ — and it often scares them the most when it’s wrapped in excellence.”
Overcoming Unexpected Challenges
After feeling ‘off’ during training, Simone was diagnosed with ‘Overtraining Syndrome.’ This serious condition affects both physical and mental health.
“I had moments where I didn’t even want to go to the pool because I knew it was going to be bad,” Manuel shared during the 2021 Olympic Trials. Yet, through patience, proper medical care, and a strong support system, she returned to competitive swimming.
Her resilience paid off— she’s now back to winning medals, including silver in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay with her teammates at the 2024 Olympic Games.
Her story demonstrates that setbacks don’t have to hold us back.
From Fear to Olympic Gold
Cullen Jones’s path to becoming a Black Olympic swimmer began with overcoming his fear of water. After a near-drowning incident as a child, he not only learned to swim but went on to win Olympic gold and set world records. He considers himself a bit of a ‘late bloomer,’ which strengthened his resolve to work even harder to become successful.
Today, he strives to make sure others have access to the same opportunities he has through Make A Splash.
“I have to be a part of fixing that or changing the perception,” Jones says about making swimming more inclusive. “The first thing is to push the learn-to-swim aspect. Then diversifying the sport is grassroots.”
Anthony Nesty’s Olympic Journey
Like many families, Anthony Nesty’s parents enrolled him in his first Learn-to-Swim class in Suriname, where he grew up. His dad figured all Anthony had to do was swim— fast.
No one could have predicted that he would make history multiple times—first as a Black Olympic swimmer who won gold in 1988 and now as the first Black head coach of the US Olympic swim team for the 2024 Paris Games.
His journey from beginner swimmer to Olympic leadership demonstrates the transformative power of early swimming education and strong mentorship.
Nesty’s achievements include:
- First Black male swimmer to win individual Olympic gold (1988)
- Three-time NCAA champion in the 100-yard butterfly (1990-1992)
- First Black head coach of the US Olympic swim team (2024)
His progression from an early swimmer to a competitive swimmer paved his path toward professional achievements, making him a model for any young swimmer.
The College Pathway
For many Black Olympic swimmers, college swimming provided crucial opportunities for development. Maritza Correia McClendon, Cullen Jones, and Simone Manuel excelled at the collegiate level before achieving Olympic success.
Their many achievements have opened doors for many young Black swimmers to pursue swimming opportunities in college.
Starting Your Journey to Olympic Gold
Every swimming champion started with basic lessons. As Cullen Jones emphasizes, “If you choose to swim, it is not a farfetched thought.”
WeAquatics provides the same foundational training that launched these Olympic careers:
- Professional, one-on-one instruction with Learn-to-Swim
- A supportive environment with instructors who represent their community
- Clear skill progression and training for summer swim leagues
- Pathways to competitive swimming through the Young Masters program
DMV’s Swimmers Can Make Future Waves
The success of Black Olympic swimmers in 2024 and beyond builds on the legacy of those who came before. From Maritza Correia McClendon, Simone Manuel, and Cullen Jones to Anthony Nesty, each champion shows what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.
Ready to start your swimming journey? Whether you want to begin by learning essential swim skills or pursue competitive goals, WeAquatics offers programs for every age and stage of development
