Janet Evans

Imagine a 17-year-old swimmer who set world records that lasted nearly twenty years! That girl is Janet Evans — a small, determined American swimmer who surprised the world.

Janet Evans, born in 1971, rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The single most important thing: she dominated long-distance freestyle races, breaking world records and winning Olympic medals.

At age 17, at the 1988 Seoul Olympics she won Olympic gold and became a global star. Over her career she set world records in the 400-, 800- and 1500-meter freestyle — records that stood for many years.

Janet’s stroke looked unusual: long straight arms and a very high stroke rate. She trained hard, stayed calm during races, and finished strongly. Her success showed that technique and determination could beat bigger rivals.

Her lasting impact: she shone a bright light on women’s distance swimming and inspired young athletes everywhere. Watch her races — they’re like a lesson in bravery and patience. Janet Evans proves heart and hard work make history.