Duke Kahanamoku
Swimmer and Water Polo Player
Born
August 24th, 1890
135 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1968
57 years ago — 77 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An American swimmer and water polo player, significant contributions to both sports were made. Competed in the 1912 and 1920 Summer Olympics, winning three gold medals and two silver medals in individual swimming events. Played polo for the United States team in water polo at the 1932 Summer Olympics. Kahanamoku was also instrumental in popularizing surfing, introducing the sport to many in California and beyond, and he served as a cultural ambassador for Hawaii throughout his life.
Won three gold medals and two silver medals in swimming at the Olympics
Played for the U.S. water polo team in the 1932 Olympics
Popularized surfing in California
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