Don Schollander

Imagine swimming so fast you win four Olympic gold medals in one Games—at only 18 years old! That happened to Don Schollander. He was an American freestyle swimmer in the 1960s and the star of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. His biggest claim to fame is winning four golds at those Games, making him the most successful athlete there.

Don trained hard, raced in freestyle sprints and relays, and helped the U.S. team win. At Tokyo he won gold medals in both individual events and team relays and helped set world-class times. People remember him for calm, powerful strokes and strong teamwork. He also swam for Yale University and was later honored by swimming organizations. He was only 18 when he became a national star and proved that young athletes could lead the team.

Why does this matter? Don's wins showed how hard work, focus, and teamwork can lead to huge success. He inspired young swimmers across America and helped make competitive swimming exciting to watch. His example still motivates athletes today. His story shows tiny daily steps add up to big wins.

So next time you splash in a pool, remember Don Schollander: a kid who practiced, raced fast, and stood on the Olympic podium four times—proof that big dreams and practice can take you far. Keep dreaming and keep swimming!