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Larsen JensenAmerican swimmer, participant in the 2008 Olympics
Date of Birth: 01.09.1985
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Family
- High School Career
- University and International Debut
- 2008 Olympics
- Post-Olympic Career
Early Life and Family
Larsen Jensen was born on September 1, 1985, in Bakersfield, California. He grew up on a small farm where his parents raised cattle and grew vegetables. Jensen's mother, Barbara Belogorskaia, was a competitive swimmer who placed fourth in the 400-meter freestyle at the 1972 World Championships. She began training her son in swimming at age 12, developing his natural talent.
High School Career
Jensen excelled in swimming at Bakersfield High School, where he won multiple school championships. When his coach moved to Colorado, Jensen relocated to live with him and attend Mission Viejo High School. This move provided him with the training and experience he needed to become a professional athlete.
University and International Debut
After graduating high school, Jensen attended the University of Southern California (USC), graduating in 2007. He made his international debut at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, where he won a silver medal in the 1500-meter freestyle, the highest American finish in that event since 1984. He also placed fourth in the 400-meter freestyle.
2008 Olympics
Jensen competed in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. He faced stiff competition from Grant Hackett but ultimately won the gold medal in the 400-meter freestyle, breaking the Olympic record. Jensen also won a bronze medal in the 1500-meter freestyle.
Post-Olympic Career
After the Beijing Olympics, Jensen continued to compete professionally. He retired from competitive swimming in 2013. He currently coaches swimming at the Trojan Swim Club in Los Angeles.
