2024 Summer Olympics Guide: Major Athletes & Moments in Water Sports
Last Updated on June 24, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
From synchronized diving to the surfers maneuvering 10 foot waves, the water sports category hold some of the most riveting events of the Olympics. The 2024 Summer Olympics will take place from July 26 to August 11 in Paris (1). Read up on the greatest Olympic moments in water sports and stay in the know about the athletes and performances to stay peeled for in this Summer Olympics here.
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5 of the greatest Olympic moments in water sports
The water sports category of the Summer Olympics have seen many historic performances, each defining a unique era and inspiring oncoming generations. From Michale Phelps’ record-breaking eight gold medal wins to inspiring feats of endurance and speed, these moments are some of the greatest in sports history.
Michael Phelps’ in Beijing 2008 Olympics
In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Michael Phelps won eight gold medals in a single Olympics, breaking Mark Spitz’s 1972 record of seven golds. Phelps set several world records, making him one of the greatest swimmers of all time. His achievements include unforgettable performances in the 200m butterfly and 4x100m medley relay.
Katie Ledecky in Rio 2016 Olympics
Katie Ledecky took the world by storm in the Rio 2016 Olympics, winning four gold medals and one silver. She set two world records in the 400m and 800m freestyle, showcasing her remarkable speed and stamina. Her achievements continue to inspire new generations of American swimmers.
Ian Thorpe in Sydney 2000 Olympics
Ian Thorpe, known as the “Thorpedo,” won three gold medals in the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Thorpe’s powerful and graceful swimming style captivated audiences and earned him victories in the 400m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle relay, and 4x200m freestyle relay. Today, Thorpe stands as the most titled Australian swimmer in history.
Mark Spitz in Munich 1972 Olympics
Mark Spitz won seven gold medals at the Munich 1972 Olympics, setting a record that lasted for 36 years until Michael Phelps surpassed it in 2008. He also set records in each of his events, including the 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly.
Dawn Fraser in the 1956, 1960, and 1964 Olympics
Dawn Fraser became the first swimmer to win the same Olympic event three times consecutively, taking gold in the 100m freestyle at the Melbourne 1956, Rome 1960, and Tokyo 1964 Olympics. Fraser’s feat established her as a pioneer in women’s swimming.
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What to expect in the 2024 Summer Olympics
As July 26 gets near, the excitement for Olympic water sports builds. These are the water sports athletes to keep an eye on during the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Katie Grimes, Team USA
At only age 15, Grimes stunned the crowd with her fourth place finish in the women’s 800m freestyle final in Tokyo. She went on to win four individual medals at the next two world championships, including a bronze in the 10km open water swim at Fukuoka 2023, also making her the first US athlete to secure an Olympic quota for Paris 2024. Needless to say, Grimes doesn’t miss. We’re excited for her memorable return in the Summer Olympics 2024.
Tatianna Weston-Webb, Team Brazil
Weston-Webb is one of the top-ranked female surfers in the world, consistently demonstrating exceptional skill and resilience. She previously competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and is now aiming for success in Paris. Her participation is significant because it highlights the growing presence and achievements of Brazilian women in a sport traditionally dominated by men in Brazil.
Eleanor Aldridge, Team Great Britain
Formula kite is making its debut as an Olympic water sport in Paris. As one of the world’s top formula kite athletes, Aldridge is definitely one to watch at this summer’s games.
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2024 Paralympic Games
Between August 28 and September 8, the Paralympic Games will take place in Paris (2). These are three of the top-performing athletes competing in the water sports category of the Paralympics.
Jessica Long, Team USA, Para swimming
Jessica Long is one of the most decorated Paralympic swimmers of all time. Competing for the United States, she has amassed an impressive number of medals across multiple Paralympic Games. Long, who competes in the S8 classification due to her double below-knee amputation, has won numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals in events such as freestyle, butterfly, backstroke, and individual medley.
Canoeist Curtis McGrath, Team Australia, Para canoeing
Curtis McGrath is a highly accomplished para-canoeist from Australia. Competing in the KL2 classification, McGrath has achieved significant success, including winning gold medals at the Paralympic Games. His story is particularly inspiring, as he took up the sport after losing his legs in a bomb blast while serving in Afghanistan.
Daniel Dias, Team Brazil, Para swimming
Daniel Dias is another highly successful para swimmer, representing Brazil. Competing in the S5 classification, Dias has won numerous medals in various Paralympic events. His exceptional performance in freestyle, butterfly, and backstroke events has made him one of the most celebrated para-athletes in the world.
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Hosting your own Olympics Games
The next best thing to booking a flight to Paris is booking a boat with TV and WiFi for an Olympic watch party, or to host your own Olympic Games.
Anchor your boat near a surf break and compete to see who can surf the most gnarly waves. Or, find a wake boat and put your group’s wakeboarding skills to the test. Feeling inspired by the Summer Olympics and SailGP’s international sailing competition? Rent sailboats to set up your own sailing races. Plot a course with buoys or markers and compete to see who has the best navigational skills.
Lakes and rivers are great places for a friendly rowing competition against a scenic backdrop. Many boats on Boatsetter come with fun amenities such as kayaks or paddleboards. Or, maybe keep it simple. Set up a course with floating markers for a little swim competition. Remember, winner gets bragging rights.
What to read next: 5 of the Most Popular Olympic Water Sports
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Foot notes
1 https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/sports
2 https://www.paralympic.org/paris-2024
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