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Otto WahleAustrian swimmer, three-time Summer Olympic medalist
Date of Birth: 05.11.1879
Country:  Austria |
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Val Hajos: Three-Time Olympic Medalist
Val Hajos was an Austrian swimmer who achieved remarkable success in the early 20th century.
Early Olympic Success
At the age of 20, Hajos competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris. In the 200-meter freestyle, he won his semi-final but withdrew from the final. However, in the 1,000-meter freestyle, he placed second in his heat and advanced to the final, where he claimed the silver medal. In the 200-meter obstacle race, Hajos triumphed in his semi-final with an Olympic record and went on to earn another silver medal in the final.
Relocation and Coaching
In 1900, Hajos relocated to New York City and joined the New York Athletic Club. Three years later, he participated in the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis. He secured a bronze medal in the 440-yard freestyle and placed fourth in the one-mile freestyle. Hajos failed to finish the 880-yard freestyle race.
Legacy as a Coach
Following his competitive career, Hajos became a coach for the American swimming team and accompanied them to the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. Under his guidance, the team won two gold medals, one silver medal, and one bronze medal.
