Colombia has produced some of the most talented and successful swimmers in the world. From Olympic gold medalists to world record holders, Colombian swimmers have made an indelible mark on the sport.
From the Caribbean coast to the Pacific Ocean, the country has produced some of the best swimmers in history. These swimmers have achieved amazing feats and set impressive records, making them some of the greatest swimmers of all time.
We will look at some of the best swimmers from Colombia, their accomplishments, and the impact they have had on the sport.
1. Omar Pinzón
Omar Andrés Pinzón García is a talented competitive swimmer who has represented Colombia in two Olympic Games. At the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece, he proudly represented his country and four years later, he did the same at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.
Pinzón has also had the opportunity to further pursue his swimming career in the United States, where he swam for the University of Florida.
During his time at the university, he likely had the chance to learn from and be mentored by some of the country’s top swimming coaches and athletes.
With his dedication, hard work and training, Pinzón has been able to achieve his impressive accolades and represent Colombia on the world’s biggest stage.
2. Isabella Arcila
Isabella Arcila Hurtado is a Colombian swimmer who has competed in the Olympics twice: at the 2016 Summer Olympics and the 2020 Summer Olympics. She participated in the women’s 50 metre freestyle event in 2016, an impressive feat for any swimmer.
This feat was even more impressive because Hurtado is from Colombia, a country that is not typically known for its swimming prowess. Despite the odds, Hurtado persevered and competed at the highest level of competition in the world.
Her perseverance and dedication to her sport is an inspiration to athletes all over the world. Her performance at the 2020 Summer Olympics was just as impressive, and she proved that she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of international swimming.
3. Carolina Colorado Henao
Carolina Colorado Henao is an impressive athlete who has achieved great success in the sport of swimming. A native of Colombia, she is a two-time Olympic competitor and has broken numerous national records in her country.
At the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, Henao represented Colombia in the swimming competitions.
Her performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics was especially impressive, as she broke the Colombian record for the 400m freestyle by nearly three seconds, setting a new national record of 4:15.68.
She was the first Colombian woman to qualify for the finals in the 400m freestyle, finishing in 22nd place. At the 2012 London Olympics, Henao continued to excel in the swimming events.
She competed in the 200m freestyle, finishing in 29th place, and broke the national record in the 400m freestyle with a time of 4:14.36. Henao’s outstanding performance at the Olympics earned her much recognition and admiration in her home country.
She was named one of the best athletes of 2012 by Colombia’s National Sports Award. Since the Olympic Games, Henao has continued to compete in various swimming competitions.
In 2013, she won a gold medal at the XVIII South American Games in the 400m freestyle, and in 2015, she won the gold medal in the 800m freestyle at the Pan American Games.
Henao’s hard work and dedication to the sport of swimming have made her a true inspiration to many young athletes in Colombia.
4. Sirena Rowe
Sirena Rowe is an accomplished swimmer from Colombia. She has achieved a great deal of success in the sport, having competed in both international and national competitions.
She has represented Colombia in the Olympic Games, World Swimming Championships, and many other major international meets. In 2020, she was the first-ever Colombian swimmer to qualify for the Summer Olympics.
Sirena has a unique background, having been born and raised in Colombia. She began her swimming career at the age of nine and quickly rose to the top of the international swimming world.
She has won multiple medals in both individual and relay events and has been recognized for her dedication and hard work. Sirena is an inspiration to many and is an excellent role model for young athletes.
She is an ambassador for the sport of swimming and works tirelessly to promote it in her home country of Colombia. She has also been part of a number of initiatives to help young swimmers in Colombia develop their skills and become the best they can be.
Sirena Rowe is a remarkable athlete, and her accomplishments continue to serve as an example to aspiring swimmers around the world. She is a symbol of hard work and dedication, and her achievements have been an inspiration to many.
5. Tomás Becerra
Tomás Becerra is a former Colombian swimmer who had the opportunity to compete at the Olympic Games on three occasions. In 1968, he participated in the Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Four years later, he returned to compete in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany.
His final Olympic appearance came in 1976 when he swam at the Montreal Olympics in Canada. Becerra was born in Colombia and was always passionate about swimming. From a young age, he began to train and hone his skills, eventually becoming one of the top swimmers in his country.
He represented Colombia in numerous international events and attained great success. He was a three-time Olympian and was able to achieve personal bests in both the individual and relay events.
Despite not winning any medals, his determination and commitment to the sport was admirable, and he remains a role model for aspiring swimmers in Colombia. Tomás Becerra is a testament to the hard work and dedication required to reach the highest levels of sport.
His accomplishments are something to be celebrated and his legacy will live on for generations to come.
6. Jorge Mario Murillo Valdes
Jorge Mario Murillo Valdes is a talented Colombian swimmer who has competed in some of the world’s most prestigious events. He first competed in the 2015 World Aquatics Championships, showcasing his prowess in the pool.
Murillo Valdes then took part in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, putting his skills on full display. Most recently, he competed in the 2020 Summer Olympics, continuing to prove himself as an incredible swimmer.
His dedication and hard work have been rewarded with the chance to compete in these major events and represent Colombia. Murillo Valdes is an inspiration to aspiring swimmers and a great example of what can be achieved through determination and perseverance.
7. Esnaider Reales
Esnaider Rey Reales Arrieta is a Colombian swimmer who recently made a splash in the 2018 FINA World Swimming Championships in Hangzhou, China. Representing his home country of Colombia, Arrieta competed in the men’s 50 metre butterfly event.
He was among the best swimmers in the world at the event, showing off his impressive speed, strength, and endurance. In his event, Arrieta managed to finish in the top ten, demonstrating that Colombia is a formidable force in the world of competitive swimming.
This accomplishment is a huge feat for Arrieta and Colombia, as they continue to build their reputation as world-class swimmers.
8. Luis Child
Luis Child was a Colombian swimmer who made history when he competed in two events at the 1948 Summer Olympics.
He was the first Colombian to ever compete in an Olympic event, and his participation marked a milestone in the country’s sporting history. Child competed in the 100 meters backstroke and the 400 metres freestyle events, both of which he finished in the top ten.
His performance was impressive considering the fact that Colombia was not a major international swimming power at the time.
His participation in the Olympics was a big step forward for Colombia, as it showcased the nation’s burgeoning sporting talent. Child’s presence at the Olympics also served as an inspiration to Colombian athletes.
He showed that it was possible to compete on the world stage and succeed, even if you come from a country that is not a traditional power in the sport.
His example served as a source of motivation for future generations of athletes from Colombia. The child’s legacy still lives on today. He is remembered as a pioneer in Colombian sports, and the nation’s athletes continue to be inspired by his achievements.
Luis Child’s participation in the 1948 Summer Olympics was a major step forward for the country, and his legacy continues to be felt today.
9. Patricia Olano
Patricia Olano is a renowned Colombian athlete. She is a former swimmer who made history by competing in five events at the 1968 Summer Olympics.
This was a remarkable achievement, as Olano was one of the first Colombian swimmers to ever make it to the Olympics. At the 1968 Summer Olympics, Patricia Olano showcased her impressive swimming skills.
She competed in five events, displaying her remarkable strength and endurance.
After competing in the 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle, 4x100m medley relay, and 4x100m freestyle relay, Patricia Olano made history as the first Colombian swimmer to make it to the Olympics. Her performance at the 1968 Summer Olympics showcased her amazing swimming abilities.
She was able to perform at a high level, despite the fact that she was competing against some of the best swimmers in the world.
She was a pioneer for the sport in Colombia, and her performance at the Olympics inspired many young swimmers to pursue their dreams. Patricia Olano is a true inspiration to many.
Not only did she make history by becoming the first Colombian swimmer to make it to the Olympics she also showed that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. She is proof that dreams can come true and that if you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything.
10. Nelly Syro
Nelly Syro was a professional swimmer from Colombia who represented her country at the 1968 Summer Olympics. Syro competed in two events at the Olympics, demonstrating her impressive skills in the sport.
Syro’s success in the Olympics was indicative of her dedication to the sport and her unwavering commitment to representing her country in the international arena. Syro was born in Colombia and began swimming at a young age.
She quickly developed a passion for the sport and was soon considered an elite swimmer.
Syro trained hard to hone her skills and by the time the 1968 Olympics arrived, she was ready to show off her talents on the world stage. Syro competed in two events at the Olympics, the 100-meter freestyle and the 200-meter individual medley.
She did not win any medals, but her participation was still impressive. Syro’s Olympic performance demonstrated her dedication to the sport and her commitment to representing her country. Syro’s Olympic career was brief, but she left a lasting impression on the sport.
Her participation in the Olympics is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She is still remembered today as a symbol of strength and perseverance for athletes from Colombia.
11. Roselina Angee
Roselina Angee is a former Colombian swimmer who made history by competing in five different events at the 1972 Summer Olympics.
She was the first swimmer from Colombia to ever compete in the Summer Olympics, and she did it in impressive fashion by participating in five different events. Angee’s participation in the 1972 Olympics showcased her skill and determination to compete at the highest level.
She was a trailblazer for Colombian swimmers and showed that talent and hard work could pay off. Angee’s accomplishments in the 1972 Summer Olympics are a testament to the dedication and drive she had for her sport.
Her remarkable performance opened up doors for other Colombian swimmers to compete on the world stage.
12. Liliana Cian
Liliana Cian is a former swimmer from Colombia. She is best known for her participation in the 1976 Summer Olympics, where she competed in three events.
Born in Colombia, Liliana began her swimming career at a young age and quickly established herself as one of the country’s top swimmers. In 1976, she was selected to compete in the Summer Olympics in Montreal, Canada.
At the Olympics, Liliana participated in the 100m backstroke, the 200m backstroke, and the 400m individual medley. She put in a strong effort in all three events but ultimately did not place in the top three.
Despite this, Liliana’s participation in the Olympics was an impressive achievement, and she will always be remembered for her hard work and dedication to the sport.
13. Federico Sicard
Federico Sicard was a Colombian competitive swimmer who participated in the 1968 Summer Olympics. He was a successful athlete, competing in four different events at the international competition.
His participation in the Olympics was a testament to his skill and determination as a swimmer. Sicard was born in Colombia and began his swimming career in the early 1960s. He competed in a variety of championships, winning several medals.
He was especially successful in the South American Championships, where he won multiple gold medals.
In 1968, he was selected to represent Colombia at the Olympic Games in Mexico City. At the Olympics, Sicard competed in the 100m butterfly, 200m butterfly, 400m individual medley, and 4x100m freestyle relay.
While he was unable to secure a medal at the event, he still managed to impress with his performances.
He was one of the few Colombian swimmers to compete at the Olympics at the time and his presence was an inspiration to many of his fellow countrymen. After the Olympics, Sicard continued to compete in the South American Championships, where he won several more medals.
He eventually retired from swimming in the early 1970s. He was one of the most successful swimmers to represent Colombia in international competition and his legacy lives on to this day.
14. Olga de Angulo
Olga Lucía de Angulo Irragorri was an accomplished Colombian swimmer who had competed in two Olympic Games, the 1968 Summer Olympics and the 1972 Summer Olympics. She had also earned a third-place finish in the 1971 Pan American Games 200-meter freestyle event.
Following her successful career in the pool, De Angulo relocated to Vancouver, Canada in 1998, where she has lived ever since. De Angulo’s accomplishments as a swimmer make her an admirable athlete, and her commitment to the sport is evident in her impressive record.
Her participation in two Olympic Games, as well as her third-place finish at the Pan American Games, demonstrate the strength of her performance.
De Angulo has been an inspiration to many athletes, and her success has been an example of what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.
15. Pablo Restrepo
Pablo Restrepo is a remarkable athlete who achieved great success in the sport of swimming. Representing his native country of Colombia, he competed in the Olympics for three consecutive games.
His accomplishments are even more impressive when considering the fact that he is the only Colombian swimmer to ever qualify and compete in an Olympic swimming final.
This achievement is a testament to his dedication to the sport. After competing in the Olympics, Pablo Restrepo continued his education at Southern Illinois University in the United States.
He is an example of someone who used their athletic talent as a stepping stone to greater achievements. His example should be followed by aspiring athletes who want to make the most of their potential. With hard work and dedication, anyone can reach their goals.
16. Carmen Gómez
Carmen Gómez is a Colombian athlete who enjoyed a successful swimming career. She was an Olympian, having competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Gómez had the honor of representing her country, Colombia, in two events.
Her events included the 100 meter freestyle and the 4 x 100 meter freestyle relay. Gómez began her career as a swimmer at an early age and quickly rose through the ranks. She was part of the national team for Colombia, and eventually earned the chance to compete at the Olympics.
At the 1968 Olympics, Gómez competed in the 100 meter freestyle and the 4 x 100 meter freestyle relay. She was not able to reach the podium, but her efforts were still recognized by her country.
Gómez’s Olympic experience was a great honor for her, and one that she would never forget. Even though she didn’t win a medal, Gómez was able to represent her country and bring pride to Colombia.
Her accomplishments demonstrate the strength and determination of Colombian athletes, and she continues to be an inspiration to aspiring swimmers everywhere.
17. Mateo de Angulo Velasco
Mateo De Angulo Velasco is an accomplished Colombian swimmer who is particularly skilled in long-distance freestyle events. He is highly respected for his achievements, having been named the 2010 NJCAA Men’s Swimmer of the Year and a nine-time NJCAA champion.
This outstanding swimmer also holds a trio of Colombian records in long-distance freestyle events. His keen focus and dedication to swimming have earned him these titles and records. Mateo has trained hard to achieve his success in the pool.
His long-distance freestyle events include the 400-meter, 800-meter, and 1500-meter races. He is comfortable in the water and able to maintain a steady pace throughout each race. This allows him to out-swim his opposition and secure the victory.
In recognition of his hard work and dedication to swimming, Mateo was named the 2010 NJCAA Men’s Swimmer of the Year. This honour put him in the spotlight and gave him the recognition he deserved for his tireless efforts.
He then went on to become a nine-time NJCAA champion, further cementing his position as one of the top swimmers in the world. Mateo also holds the Colombian records in all three long-distance freestyle events.
This speaks volumes of his abilities in the pool and is evidence of the dedication he has to the sport. He has worked tirelessly to be the best in his field, and his records stand as a testament to his hard work and determination.
Mateo De Angulo Velasco is an exceptional swimmer who has achieved great success in long-distance freestyle events. His titles and records are a result of his hard work and dedication and serve as a reminder of what can be achieved with the right amount of effort.
18. Ivan Gomina
Ivan Gomina is a former swimmer from Colombia who competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics. He participated in two different events, showcasing his impressive athletic prowess. Gomina was part of the Colombian delegation that year, representing his country in the pool.
He was dedicated to his sport, training hard in the months leading up to the event. Gomina’s Olympic experience was undoubtedly a memorable one. After all, it was his first time competing at the highest level of his sport.
He must have been filled with pride when he stepped out onto the pool deck, knowing he was about to represent his country to the world.
His dedication to his training paid off, as he was able to perform at the highest level and show the world what he was capable of. Unfortunately, Gomina’s Olympic experience ended without any medals. However, he can still be proud of his accomplishments.
He was able to make it to the Olympics and compete against the best swimmers in the world. That alone is an incredible achievement and something that Gomina can be proud of for the rest of his life.
19. Fernando Jácome
Fernando José Jácome Clavijo is a talented freestyle swimmer who represents Colombia in international competitions. At the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia, he competed in two freestyle events – the Men’s 100m Freestyle and the Men’s 200m Freestyle.
In the 100m Freestyle, he placed 47th overall after clocking in a time of 52.24 in the preliminary heats. In the 200m Freestyle, he placed 34th overall. Although he did not win any medals, Clavijo was still proud to represent his country in the international stage.
He continues to train and compete in competitive swimming events and is committed to do his best for Colombia.
20. Julio Galofre
Julio César Galofre Montes is a talented Colombian swimmer. He is a seasoned athlete who has been competing in swimming since his youth. He represented his home country, Colombia, in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China.
During the Olympics, he competed in multiple events such as the 50-meter freestyle and the 100-meter butterfly. Despite not winning a medal, Julio still managed to put forth an impressive performance.
His determination and perseverance helped him to make it to the Olympic Games and compete against the best swimmers in the world. His commitment to swimming has been an inspiration to many young athletes in Colombia, who now have a role model to look up to in Julio.
He is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success, no matter the circumstances.
21. Helmut Levy
Helmut Levy is a former swimmer from Colombia. He competed in two consecutive Summer Olympic Games, first in 1976 and then in 1980.
Levy was an accomplished swimmer, representing his home country with distinction. He first competed in the 1976 Summer Olympics, where he put in a strong performance in the pool.
He competed in many different events, including the 200m and 400m freestyle, the 400m individual medley, and the 4x200m freestyle relay.
Sadly, he failed to win a medal in any of these events. Four years later, Levy returned to the Olympics as part of the Colombian team in the 1980 Summer Olympics. Once again, he competed in the same events as before.
He put in another strong performance, but this time, he was unlucky to miss out on a medal. Despite not winning a medal, Levy’s efforts in two consecutive Summer Olympics are still remembered by his fellow countrymen.
His determination and drive to represent Colombia on the world stage is something that will always be admired. He will always be remembered as an Olympic swimmer who proudly flew the flag for Colombia.
22. Diego Perdomo
Diego Perdomo is a former Colombian swimmer who made a splash on the world stage in the 1996 Summer Olympics. He represented his home country in the pool at the Games, competing in a variety of events.
Perdomo had a successful career as a competitive swimmer, winning several medals in international meets around the world. He was particularly successful in the South American Championships and the Central American and Caribbean Games.
At the 1996 Olympics, Perdomo swam in the 100 meter freestyle, 200 meter freestyle, and 4×100-meter freestyle relay events. Despite not placing in any of these, he was honored to represent his country at the Olympic Games.
After his competitive career, Perdomo continued to be involved in the sport of swimming, working as a coach and mentor to young swimmers in Colombia.
He has helped to develop and nurture some of the country’s most talented swimmers, and his legacy in the sport will continue to live on.
23. Jorge Jaramillo
Jorge Jaramillo is a former swimmer from Colombia who was selected to compete in the 1972 and 1976 Summer Olympics. He is well known for his swimming achievements and is especially admired in his home country. He is also the brother of famous tennis coach, Gabe Jaramillo.
Gabe is renowned for his work with professional players, such as Andre Agassi and Rafael Nadal. Jorge and Gabe share a great bond as siblings and Jorge has credited Gabe for his success as a swimmer. Gabe has certainly been a great support system for Jorge in his career.
Jorge has also been a great inspiration for many young swimmers in his home country and has encouraged them to pursue their dreams.
He is a great example of dedication and passion for the sport of swimming and his story is a great source of motivation for aspiring swimmers from all over the world.
24. Camilo Becerra
Camilo Becerra is a remarkable athlete who has achieved a great deal of success in the sport of swimming. He has competed in three Olympic games, representing his home country of Colombia in 2000, 2004 and 2008.
His best finish to date was a tie for 37th in the men’s 50m freestyle at the 2004 Olympic Games. In addition to his impressive Olympic record, Becerra has also competed at the 2007 World Championships, showcasing his abilities to a global audience.
His dedication to his sport is unparalleled, and his achievements have earned him a spot among the world’s most decorated swimmers.
25. Carlos Serrano Zárate
Carlos Daniel Serrano Zárate is a remarkable Colombian athlete who has achieved success in the Paralympic Games. Born in Colombia, Carlos Daniel has been living with a physical disability since birth. Despite this, he has pushed himself to excel in the sport of swimming.
He has achieved great success in the Paralympic Games, winning multiple medals in various events.
He has also achieved world recognition for his swimming abilities, having been featured in global media outlets. Carlos Daniel’s success in the Paralympic Games has been a testament to his dedication and hard work.
He has trained relentlessly and pushed himself to be the best he can be. He has also become a role model for people with disabilities, showing them that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.
His success in the Paralympic Games has also been beneficial for the Colombian sporting community, as it has increased the profile of the nation on the international stage. Carlos Daniel is an inspiration for many, and his achievements should be celebrated.
He has proven that disability should not be a barrier to success, and his story should be an example to everyone. With determination, hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
26. Diana Isabel Pineda Zuleta
Diana Isabel Pineda Zuleta is an accomplished athlete from Colombia. She has competed in two Summer Olympics, beginning in 2000, representing her homeland.
She is a diver and has achieved great success in her sport. At the 2008 South American Swimming Championships in São Paulo, Diana Isabel Pineda Zuleta earned three medals.
This was a tremendous accomplishment for her, and it has cemented her place as an elite athlete. Throughout her career, she has trained hard and dedicated herself to her sport. She has faced many challenges and has worked to overcome them.
Her success has been inspiring to many, and she is a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Diana Isabel Pineda Zuleta’s accomplishments are a testament to her skill and determination.
Her determination to succeed and her willingness to push herself to the limit have made her a champion in her sport. She is an inspiration for many athletes, showing what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
27. Paola Duguet
Paola Duguet is a world-class athlete who has made a name for herself in the field of Olympic freestyle swimming. Born in Colombia, she represented her home country in the 2004 Olympics, competing in the 400 and 800 meter freestyle events.
Her success in the Olympic pool is due in large part to her parents, Noel and Maria Teresa Duguet.
Her father is the founder and principal of Aravis Capital Advisors, based in Briarcliff Manor, and her mother is a successful real estate broker. Paola Duguet is a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work and dedication.
Growing up in Colombia, she was inspired by her parents and their work ethic. Her father’s business success has enabled her to focus on her swimming career and allowed her to pursue her Olympic dreams.
Her mother’s work as a real estate broker has given her the financial stability to pursue her passion for swimming. Paola Duguet is a true champion in the world of Olympic freestyle swimming.
She is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when a person is passionate about a goal and works hard to achieve it. Her success is a testament to her parents and their dedication to her success.
28. Alejandro Bermúdez
Alejandro Bermúdez Tamayo is a retired swimmer from Colombia who competed in three consecutive Summer Olympics. He was a backstroke and medley swimmer, representing his home country in the 1992, 1996, and 2000 Olympics.
At the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, he achieved his best result, placing 13th in the Men’s 400 meters Individual Medley. This impressive accomplishment shows the dedication and hard work that Alejandro put into his swimming career.
Not only did he compete at the highest level in three consecutive Olympics, but he was also able to achieve a high ranking in the event. This speaks volumes about his talent and ability as an athlete.
29. Nelson Crispin
Nelson Crispín Corzo is an inspiring athlete who has achieved remarkable success in the Paralympic Games. He is a Colombian swimmer who has competed in the Summer Paralympics three times, in 2012, 2016, and 2020.
Throughout his Paralympic career, Corzo has won seven medals in total – one gold, five silver, and one bronze. His gold medal was won in 2012 in the Men’s 50m Freestyle event, and his five silver medals were won across different events in 2012 and 2016.
His bronze medal was won in the 2020 Paralympics in the Men’s 50m Freestyle event. His hard work and dedication have enabled him to become one of the most successful Paralympians in Colombia and an inspiration for athletes around the world.
30. Fernanda Pérez
Fernanda Pérez is a former athlete from Colombia. She is most well-known for her career as a swimmer, in which she competed in professionally for many years. Pérez competed in two events at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Canada.
She was one of the first female athletes from Colombia to do so at the international level. During her time as a professional swimmer, she gained recognition for her impressive skills and was a source of pride for the Colombian community.
Pérez earned many medals and accolades for her outstanding swimming performances throughout her career. Her legacy continues to be celebrated today, and she is remembered as one of Colombia’s greatest athletes.
Conclusion
The best swimmers in Colombia have been identified as some of the most talented and skilled swimmers in the world. They have achieved impressive results in a variety of competitions, ranging from local, regional, and national events to international competitions.
These swimmers have demonstrated their abilities and commitment to the sport, and have set an example for other aspiring swimmers.
With their impressive achievements and drive, these Colombian swimmers have set the bar for the rest of the world in terms of excellence in the sport of swimming.
