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Jean BoiteuxFrench swimmer
Date of Birth: 20.06.1933
Country:  France |
Content:
- Jean Boiteux: French Olympic Swimming Champion
- Olympic Glory in Helsinki
- International Dominance
- Hall of Fame Recognition
- Tragic Farewell
Jean Boiteux: French Olympic Swimming Champion
Early Life and Family InfluenceJean Boiteux was born into a family with a strong swimming lineage. His mother, Bienna Pellegry, was an Olympic swimmer who competed in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay in 1924 and 1928. His uncle, Salvator Pellegry, was also an Olympic swimmer in 1924.
Olympic Glory in Helsinki
Boiteux achieved the pinnacle of his swimming career at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, where he won gold in the 400-meter freestyle (4:30.7, an Olympic record) and bronze in the 4x200-meter freestyle relay. His victory in the 400-meter freestyle was a historic moment, as he became the first French swimmer to win an Olympic gold medal.
International Dominance
Boiteux was not only successful at the Olympics. He was a six-time Mediterranean Games champion, a four-time European silver medalist, and a multiple French national champion. He set one world record (as part of a relay team), six European records, and several French records during his career.
Hall of Fame Recognition
In 1982, Boiteux was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame, a testament to his outstanding achievements in the sport.
Tragic Farewell
On April 11, 2010, at the age of 76, Boiteux tragically passed away after falling from a tree in his garden. His legacy as a pioneering French swimmer continues to inspire future generations.
