The Netherlands is home to some of the world’s best swimmers. From Olympic gold medalists to world record holders, Dutch swimmers have achieved incredible success in the pool.
The country has produced some of the most talented athletes to ever compete in the sport, and many of them are still active in the sport today. In this article, we will be taking a look at some of the best swimmers in the Netherlands, and what makes them so great.
1. Arno Kamminga
Arno Kamminga is a Dutch swimmer who achieved success in international competitions. At the 2020 Summer Olympics, he won silver medals in the 100 metre breaststroke and 200 metre breaststroke events.
These accomplishments are a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. Kamminga also competed in the men’s 50 metre breaststroke event at the 2017 World Aquatics Championships.
Despite not winning a medal, his participation demonstrates his ability to compete at the highest levels and his commitment to the sport. Kamminga has proven himself to be a formidable competitor in the swimming world.
His success in the 2020 Olympics and his participation in the 2017 World Aquatics Championships show his hard work and dedication to the sport. He is a role model for young athletes aspiring to reach their highest potential.
2. Ranomi Kromowidjojo
Ranomi Kromowidjojo is a retired Dutch swimmer who has a mixed heritage of Dutch and Javanese Surinamese. She was an exceptional athlete, specializing in sprint freestyle events. Her career peak was during the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, where she won three gold medals.
At the 2008 Olympics, she was part of the 4 × 100 m freestyle relay team that won the gold medal. Two years later at the 2012 Olympics, she won gold medals in both the 50 m freestyle and 100 m freestyle events.
Throughout her career, Ranomi Kromowidjojo broke numerous records and has won numerous awards, making her one of the most accomplished swimmers of her time. Her success has been an inspiration to many young swimmers, who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of swimmers to come.
3. Pieter van den Hoogenband
Pieter Cornelis Martijn van den Hoogenband is a Dutch retired swimmer.
He is a highly decorated athlete, having won three Olympic gold medals, and breaking several world records during his career. Van den Hoogenband’s first major international medal came in 1997 when he won a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle at the European Championships.
He continued to climb the ranks of the international swimming world, and in 2000 he won his first Olympic gold medal in the 200m freestyle at the Sydney Olympics.
He also won a silver medal in the 100m freestyle at the same Olympics. Four years later, at the Athens Olympics, Van den Hoogenband won gold medals in both the 100m and 200m freestyle events.
He also set a new world record in the 200m freestyle with a time of 1:45.35, which he held for almost 8 years. In addition to his Olympic success, Van den Hoogenband also won three World Championship gold medals, two European Championship gold medals, and several other medals at international competitions.
He retired from competitive swimming in 2008, but his legacy lives on in the world of swimming. He is remembered as one of the greatest swimmers of all time and an inspiration to many.
4. Moniek Nijhuis
Moniek Nijhuis is a Dutch swimmer who has specialized in the breaststroke. She was a professional swimmer for several years, training under the guidance of Martin Truijens.
Unfortunately, she missed out on making the Dutch team for the 2008 Summer Olympics, and this disappointment caused her to take a break from professional swimming.
As a result of her dedication to the sport, Nijhuis had built up a strong reputation amongst Dutch swimming circles. She was an experienced and dedicated athlete and was highly respected among her peers.
Despite the setback of not making the Olympics team, she was still determined to make a return to the pool, and eventually resumed training and competing.
Her break from the sport was short-lived, and she soon returned to the competitive environment she had been so familiar with.
5. Kyle Stolk
Kyle Stolk is a Dutch competitive swimmer who has achieved a great deal of success in his career. He is a specialist in freestyle events and won a silver medal in the boys’ 200 m freestyle at the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics in Nanjing.
Additionally, he was a member of the Dutch swimming squad in the 4×200 m freestyle relay at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, where he finished seventh.
Stolk has been committed to swimming since a young age and this dedication has enabled him to reach the highest levels of competition. He is a talented athlete who has been able to demonstrate his skills in a range of international events.
Stolk’s achievements demonstrate that he is a dedicated and determined athlete who is always striving to reach the top. He is an inspiration to aspiring swimmers and a great example of hard work and dedication paying off.
6. Nyls Korstanje
Nyls Korstanje is a Dutch competitive swimmer who has achieved great success in his field. He recently competed in the 4×100 m mixed freestyle relay event at the 2018 European Aquatics Championships, where he won a silver medal.
This was a remarkable accomplishment for the young swimmer, and it highlights his incredible skill and talent. Korstanje is no stranger to success in the pool.
He has been competing in swimming competitions since he was a child, and he has been consistently successful throughout his career.
His silver medal at the European Aquatics Championships is just one of many achievements that he has been able to accomplish in his career. Korstanje has received much recognition for his success in competitive swimming.
He has been featured in several publications, including Dutch newspapers, and his accomplishments have been celebrated throughout the Netherlands.
His silver medal at the European Aquatics Championships is just the latest in a long list of accomplishments that have been made in his swimming career. Ultimately, Nyls Korstanje is an incredibly talented swimmer who has had a great deal of success in his career.
His silver medal at the 2018 European Aquatics Championships is a testament to his skill and dedication, and it is something that he can be proud of.
He is an inspiration to other swimmers all around the world, and his success should serve as a reminder that hard work and dedication can pay off.
7. Femke Heemskerk
Femke Heemskerk is a former Dutch competitive swimmer who was successful in the sport for many years. She specialized in freestyle events but was also very adept at backstroke and medley. Her career began at an early age, competing in local and regional competitions.
She eventually went on to compete at the highest level of international competition, winning multiple medals and awards along the way. Her determination and dedication to the sport resulted in her becoming one of the top swimmers in the Netherlands.
She is now retired, but her legacy remains in the swimming community and she is held in high regard by her peers. Femke Heemskerk is an inspiration to young swimmers everywhere, showing that hard work and dedication can lead to success.
8. Marleen Veldhuis
Magdalena Johanna Maria “Marleen” Veldhuis is an impressive figure in the world of swimming. She is a retired swimmer from the Netherlands who achieved remarkable success during her career. Veldhuis set an impressive record by becoming the world record holder in four events.
Her accomplishments did not stop there, as she also won eight world championships gold medals and 20 European championships gold medals. This is an incredible feat and is a testament to her dedication and passion to the sport.
With such a successful career, Veldhuis is an inspirational figure for aspiring swimmers and athletes alike. She has shown that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
9. Rie Mastenbroek
Hendrika “Rie” Wilhelmina Mastenbroek was a Dutch swimmer who achieved great success in the Olympic Games. She was born in Rotterdam in 1914 and quickly became one of the most successful swimmers in the Netherlands.
She was a part of the Dutch national team for the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, where she won three gold medals and two bronze medals, becoming the first woman to win three gold medals in swimming at the same Olympics.
Her gold medals were won in the 100m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, and 4x100m Freestyle Relay events.
She also won a bronze medal in the 4x100m Medley Relay and a bronze medal in the 100m Backstroke. Her success in the Olympics was an inspiration to many swimmers in the Netherlands and around the world. She was a symbol of strength and determination for swimmers everywhere.
After her retirement, she became a swimming coach and was the head coach for the Dutch women’s swimming team for the 1972 Olympics.
She was also inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2000. Hendrika “Rie” Wilhelmina Mastenbroek was a remarkable athlete who achieved great success in swimming and has left an enduring legacy in the world of sports.
She will always be remembered as a triple Olympic champion and an inspirational figure in the world of swimming.
10. Bert Bergsma
Bert Bergsma was a talented freestyle swimmer from the Netherlands who had the opportunity to compete in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, West Germany.
He was part of the Dutch relay teams in the 4 × 100 m freestyle and the 4 × 200 m freestyle events, but unfortunately was eliminated in both. Bergsma was a promising athlete during his time, and his participation in the Olympics showed just how skilled he was.
Despite his elimination in the events, he showed great sportsmanship and represented his country proudly. His contribution to the Olympic Games is something to be admired and respected.
11. Lambertus Benenga
Lambertus “Lamme” Benenga was a Dutch swimmer who competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics in the 100 metre freestyle competition. Unfortunately, he was eliminated in the first round.
Lamme Benenga was the older brother of Bouke Benenga, who was also a Dutch swimmer and participated in the same Olympics. Lamme and Bouke both represented their country in the 1908 Summer Olympics, although Lamme did not make it past the first round.
This did not stop Lamme from inspiring his younger brother; Bouke went on to win the bronze medal in the 200 metre freestyle competition that same Olympics.
The 1908 Summer Olympics was a big event for the Benenga brothers, and it is clear that Lamme’s participation had an impact on Bouke’s success.
12. Marjan Janus
Maria Alida Catharina “Marjan” Janus is a former breaststroke swimmer from the Netherlands. In 1968, she competed in the 100 m breaststroke event at the Dutch national championships and made a surprising victory over the long-time favorite Klenie Bimolt.
As a result of this impressive performance, she was selected to represent her country at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City.
Unfortunately, she did not make it to the final round of the competition, but her feat of beating the long-time favorite was a remarkable achievement. Marjan Janus was born in the Netherlands and started swimming at an early age.
She quickly developed her skills in breaststroke and eventually became one of the best swimmers in her country. In addition to her success at the national championships, she also had a successful career in international competitions.
She represented the Netherlands in the European Championships and the World Championships in breaststroke, as well as several other events. Marjan Janus is a prime example of a successful athlete, having achieved success both nationally and internationally.
Despite not making it to the final round of the Summer Olympics, she still had a successful career, which is a testament to her skill and determination.
13. Tineke Hofland
Martina Maria Hofland was a talented swimmer from the Netherlands who had high hopes for the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, West Germany.
She had trained diligently in the 100m Breaststroke event, but unfortunately, her dreams of success were dashed when she was eliminated in the qualifying heats.
She clocked in with a time of 1:19.38, which unfortunately was not enough for her to advance to the next round of the competition. Despite the setback, Hofland can be proud of her accomplishments and the hard work and dedication she put into her training.
It is a testament to her character that she was able to compete at such a high level and with such success.
14. Nel Bos
Petronella Johanna Maria “Nel” Bos is a retired swimmer from the Netherlands. She was a successful swimmer, having competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics in four different events.
Bos was able to make a name for herself in the 100 m freestyle, 100 m butterfly, 4 × 100 m freestyle relay, and 4 × 100 m medley relay. Her best performance was in the 4 x 100 m medley relay, where she placed seventh overall.
She was a strong competitor, showing her skill in all four events. Bos was born in the Netherlands and started swimming at a young age. She was a dedicated athlete, training hard in order to compete in the Olympics.
Her determination and perseverance paid off, as she was able to make it to the Olympics in 1968.
She was a proud representative of the Netherlands and was able to show her skill and talent in the four events she competed in. Bos was a great swimmer and her performance in the 1968 Olympics was admirable.
Despite the fact that she was unable to take home a medal, she still achieved a great result.
She was able to show her strength and skill in all four events and was able to place seventh in the 4 x 100 m medley relay. Overall, Petronella Johanna Maria “Nel” Bos was an impressive swimmer from the Netherlands.
She was able to make it to the 1968 Olympics and compete in four different events. She showed her talent and skill in all four events and was able to place seventh in the 4 x 100 m medley relay.
Her dedication and hard work paid off, making her a great representative of the Netherlands and a successful swimmer.
15. Rie Beisenherz
Rie Beisenherz was a Dutch swimmer who made history by becoming the first female to represent the Netherlands at the Summer Olympics. She competed in the women’s 100 metre freestyle event at the 1920 Games in Antwerp, Belgium.
Beisenherz was an outstanding athlete who made her nation proud with her impressive performance. Although she finished in fourth place, Beisenherz’s participation in the event was a milestone, as she was the first woman to represent the Netherlands in Olympic competition.
She also set a personal best time of 1 minute and 21.4 seconds, which was an impressive achievement in 1920. Beisenherz’s legacy still lives on in the Netherlands, and she has been recognized for her pioneering contributions to women’s sports.
She is remembered as an inspirational figure who overcame the odds and achieved great success. Her example has encouraged many Dutch women to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence in sports.
16. Frieke Buys
Johanna Friederike “Frieke” Buys is a retired butterfly swimmer from the Netherlands. She was a talented athlete who represented her country proudly at the 1972 Summer Olympics.
During her time at the Olympics, she competed in both the 100 meter butterfly and 200 meter butterfly events. Unfortunately, she did not advance past the semifinals in the 100 meter butterfly and was eliminated in the heats of the 200 meter butterfly.
However, her enthusiasm and dedication to the sport of swimming is remembered and appreciated by her peers. Even though she did not succeed in the Olympics, her passion for the sport of swimming is an admirable example to many.
17. Enith Brigitha
Enith Sijtje Maria Brigitha is a highly accomplished swimmer who was active in the 1970s. She was the Netherlands’ representative in the 1972 Summer Olympics, and she achieved great success at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
At the 1976 Olympics, she won two bronze medals in the women’s 100 m and 200 m freestyle events. This made her the first Dutch swimmer to win an Olympic medal, and she is still remembered fondly today for her outstanding achievements in the pool.
Brigitha was a dominant force in the sport during her time, and her success at the Montreal Olympics was seen as a major victory for the Netherlands. Her legacy as a pioneering female athlete will continue to inspire generations of swimmers and athletes from around the world.
18. Toos Beumer
Catharina Johanna “Toos” Beumer was a Dutch swimmer who earned a bronze medal in the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. She was part of the 4×100 metres freestyle relay team, which included Pauline van der Wildt, Erica Terpstra, and Winnie van Weerdenburg.
The team clocked in at 4:12.0, giving them the bronze and a place in Olympic history. Beumer was a highly talented swimmer who had been training since she was a young child.
She was a member of the Dutch swimming national team and had a successful career as a swimmer, competing in various events in both the national and international arenas.
At the 1964 Olympics, Beumer was part of the Dutch 4×100 metres freestyle relay team, which also included Pauline van der Wildt, Erica Terpstra, and Winnie van Weerdenburg. The team worked together to finish the race in 4:12.0, earning them a bronze medal.
This was a huge accomplishment for the team and for Beumer, who had worked hard in the lead up to the event. Beumer’s bronze medal at the 1964 Olympics was a great success and a testament to her dedication and skill.
She truly made her mark on the sport of swimming and her success is an inspiration to other swimmers.
19. Klenie Bimolt
Klena Geertje Bimolt is an accomplished former breaststroke swimmer from the Netherlands. In 1964, she achieved a remarkable feat by winning a silver medal in the 4 × 100 medley relay at the Summer Olympics.
She was part of a talented team, which included Corrie Winkel, Ada Kok, and Erica Terpstra. They worked together to bring home the silver medal for their country.
Klena Geertje Bimolt had been swimming competitively since a young age, and her hard work and dedication to the sport paid off when she represented the Netherlands in the Olympics.
She and her teammates trained hard and put in many hours of practice in preparation for the Olympic event. On the day of the race, they gave it their all and managed to come second in the 4 × 100 medley relay.
The Olympic medal was an incredible achievement for Klena Geertje Bimolt and her teammates. Their hard work and determination paid off, and they were able to bring home a medal for their country.
This accomplishment is a testament to their dedication to the sport of swimming, and it serves as an inspiration for those who seek to achieve their dreams.
20. Rika Bruins
Henderika “Rika” Bruins is a retired Dutch swimmer and an Olympian who competed in the 1952 Summer Olympics in the 200 m breaststroke. Despite her best efforts, Bruins failed to make it to the final.
However, her achievements were not limited to that event, as she was part of Dutch teams that set world records in the 4 × 100 m medley relay in 1954 and 1955.
Her name is still remembered in the swimming world, and she is recognized as one of the greatest Dutch swimmers of all time. Her determination and passion for the sport are an inspiration to all athletes.
21. Kira Bulten
Kira Bulten is a former competitive swimmer from the Netherlands. She had the opportunity to participate in the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona, Spain. During the Olympics, she competed in the 100 m and 200 m breaststroke events.
Unfortunately, she was unable to progress any further than the heats and was eliminated from the competition. Despite this setback, she had the honor of representing her country and participating in the Olympic Games.
This experience was undoubtedly a valuable one, and a great source of pride for Kira and her country.
22. Conny van Bentum
Cornelia “Conny” van Bentum is an incredibly accomplished former swimmer. She was born in the Netherlands and was a standout swimmer in two different disciplines, butterfly and freestyle.
During her career, Conny achieved a great deal of success in both disciplines, competing at the highest levels of international competition and even winning several medals throughout her career.
In addition to her accomplishments in the pool, Conny also had the distinction of being the first Dutch swimmer to break the 2-minute barrier in the 200-meter butterfly.
This feat earned her the title of a Dutch swimming legend, and she still holds the record for the 200-meter butterfly today. As someone who has dedicated her life to the sport of swimming, Conny is a true inspiration to both Dutch swimmers and to all athletes everywhere.
23. Josien Elzerman
Josina Alida Elzerman is a Dutch swimmer who competed at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany. She was a freestyle and breaststroke swimmer and competed in both events at the Olympics.
In the 200 m breaststroke, she was unable to advance past the qualifying heats, finishing with a time of 2:28.18.
In the 4×100 m freestyle relay, she and her teammates finished in fifth place. Josina Alida Elzerman is an example of an athlete who was able to compete on the world stage despite a lack of success in her individual event.
Her fifth-place finish in the relay was a testament to her dedication to the sport and her commitment to achieving a personal best. Even if she did not medal, she was still able to take part in the Olympic experience and make her mark as an elite athlete.
24. Madelon Baans
Madelon Baans is a retired female breaststroke swimmer from the Netherlands. She was a competitive swimmer, having participated in three consecutive Summer Olympics, starting with the 1996 Games in Atlanta, Georgia.
Her international career culminated in her last appearance at the European Short Course Swimming Championships 2005 in Trieste, Italy. Madelon Baans was an exemplary athlete, with a remarkable track record in swimming.
She represented her native country at three Summer Olympics, beginning with the 1996 Games in Atlanta. Her debut in the Olympics marked the start of a very successful career.
She continued to participate in numerous international competitions, including the European Short Course Swimming Championships 2005 in Trieste, Italy. Madelon Baans is a true inspiration for young athletes.
She has proven that dedication and hard work can lead to success, even at the highest level. Her impressive achievements in sports have earned her well-deserved recognition and admiration from the sporting community.
Despite her retirement from competitive swimming, Madelon remains an important figure in the Netherlands and in the world of swimming. She has left a legacy of excellence and determination, which will continue to inspire swimmers for years to come.
25. Jannie de Groot
Adriana Elisabeth “Jannie/Janny” de Groot was a successful Dutch swimmer who achieved many accolades in her career. In 1947 and 1950, de Groot won the Dutch national titles, demonstrating her ability as a top swimmer.
She also achieved a third-place finish in the 200 m breaststroke at the European Aquatics Championships. Her success continued as she competed in the same event at the 1948 Summer Olympics, where she finished fifth in the final race.
Interestingly, the race was won by her Dutch teammate Nel van Vliet, showing the strength of Dutch swimming at the time. Overall, de Groot had a successful swimming career, achieving many accomplishments and representing her homeland of the Netherlands to the highest standard.
26. Jolijn van Valkengoed
Jolijn van Valkengoed is a Dutch swimmer who is well-known for her breaststroke abilities. She has been swimming since a young age and has now reached an international level.
Currently, she is training for upcoming competitions in her hometown of Lelystad with her younger brother Thijs. Jolijn’s international career began at the European Championships 2006 in Budapest when she was 24.
Since then, she has competed at many international competitions and has made a name for herself in the world of swimming. She is continuing to train hard with her brother and is determined to make a name for herself in the sport.
27. Betty Heukels
Elisabeth Anna Heukels is a retired medley swimmer from the Netherlands who achieved great success in her sport. In 1964, she competed in the 400 m individual medley at the Tokyo Summer Olympics and finished in sixth place.
After her retirement from swimming, she married Hans Wouda, a former water polo player who also represented the Netherlands in the 1968 and 1972 Summer Olympics.
Both Elisabeth and Hans had successful athletic careers, proving themselves to be great athletes on an international level.
Their marriage is a testament to their dedication and commitment to the sport, and it is a wonderful example of two athletes finding love and companionship in each other.
28. Corrie Winkel
Kornelia Winkel is a celebrated former backstroke swimmer from the Netherlands. She was an exceptional athlete, having achieved great success in her career. In 1962, she competed in the European Aquatics Championships and placed second in the 100 meter backstroke event.
Two years later, she achieved her greatest success when she won a silver medal in the 4×100 meter medley relay at the 1964 Summer Olympics. This was a remarkable accomplishment and it earned Kornelia a great deal of respect.
Her success in the pool has made her into a Dutch swimming legend and an inspiration for young athletes. Kornelia’s success is proof that hard work and dedication can help anyone achieve their dreams, no matter how difficult the odds may seem.
29. Greetje Galliard
Margaretha Cornelia Galliard was a Dutch swimmer with an impressive record in the sport. She competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics, where she placed eighth in the 100 m backstroke event.
However, her biggest achievement came two years later at the 1950 European Aquatics Championships, where she won a bronze medal in the same event. In addition to her medal-winning performance at the European Championships, Galliard also had success at other competitions, including the Great Prize of the town of Paris in September 1950, where she won the 100 m backstroke event.
Her victory was a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport, making her an excellent role model for aspiring swimmers. Galliard’s success in swimming was not limited to her swimming career.
After her retirement, she continued to be involved in the sport, coaching aspiring swimmers, and even serving as an official at swimming competitions.
Her hard work and dedication to the sport continued to be an inspiration to others, and her legacy will live on for many years to come.
30. Ellen Elzerman
Ellen Louise Elzerman is a former competitive swimmer from the Netherlands. She competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain in both backstroke and freestyle events.
Unfortunately, she was unable to advance to the finals of either the 100m or 200m backstroke events, as she was eliminated in the heats. Despite this, Elzerman’s participation in the Olympics was an impressive feat, and she is still a celebrated athlete in her home country.
31. Maarten Brzoskowski
Maarten Brzoskowski is an incredible athlete from the Netherlands who competes in swimming, with a specialty in the freestyle style of swimming.
He has achieved great success in his career, setting the Dutch records in both the long course and short course 400 meter freestyle events.
This impressive feat is made even more remarkable by the fact that Maarten is of Polish origin, as his father’s grandfather emigrated from Poland to the Netherlands during World War I.
This shows that Maarten is the result of a long line of hardworking, resilient people who have been able to make the most of difficult times and create a better future for themselves and their families.
Maarten is a great example of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and determination, no matter where you come from.
32. Kim Busch
Kim Busch is a Dutch swimmer who competes in freestyle and butterfly events. She is a member of the Dutch freestyle relay team and has achieved outstanding success on the world stage.
At the 2016 Short Course World Championships, Busch and the Dutch freestyle relay team won a silver medal in the 4×50 m event. The following year at the 2017 World Championships, the team won a bronze medal in the 4×100 m event.
This was a remarkable achievement for Busch and her teammates, proving that they are some of the best swimmers in the world. Busch’s success at the World Championships has made her a star in the Dutch swimming community and has earned her a place among the elite in the sport.
33. Alida Bolten
Alida “Ada” Cornelia Bolten was a talented athlete hailing from Amsterdam, the Netherlands. She was born and died in the same city and was the sister of Wim Bolten.
Ada had a passion for freestyle swimming, and she put this passion into action when she competed in the 1924 Summer Olympics. During the competition, she was part of a Dutch relay team which placed sixth in the 4 × 100 metre freestyle relay.
Ada was undoubtedly a remarkable athlete and, despite her team’s mid-level finish, she still managed to shine as a positive example of what dedication and hard work can bring.
34. Jan Bouwman
Jan Bouwman was a Dutch competitive swimmer who made a name for himself in the 1960 Summer Olympics. He competed in the 100 meter freestyle event, which is one of the most prestigious events in swimming.
Unfortunately, his efforts were not enough to reach the finals, and he missed out on the opportunity to show the world his talent. Despite this setback, Jan Bouwman’s name remains remembered as an important part of the Dutch swimming scene during the 1960s.
He was a great example of a dedicated athlete who strived to achieve his goals despite the odds. He was also a strong example of someone who never gave up, even when faced with disappointment.
Jan Bouwman’s legacy still inspires swimmers all over the world to pursue their dreams and be the best they can be.
35. Thom de Boer
Thom de Boer is an Olympic Dutch swimmer who recently competed in the Rotterdam Qualification Meet 2020. On 3 December 2020, he achieved a new Dutch record in the 50 metres freestyle, clocking in at 21.71 seconds.
This was a remarkable accomplishment, as it qualified him for the 2020 Summer Olympics. This is a major accomplishment for Thom de Boer, as becoming an Olympic athlete is no small feat.
It’s a great testament to his dedication and hard work that he was able to break the Dutch record and get himself into the Olympics.
He has worked hard to get to this level of performance and it’s a testament to his drive and ambition to be the best. De Boer is a great example of how hard work and dedication pay off. He has gone from being a relatively unknown swimmer to a record-setting Olympic athlete.
He has broken the barrier for other Dutch swimmers and has become a role model for aspiring Olympic athletes. He has set a new standard for Dutch swimmers and it will be interesting to see if he can continue to make a statement in the 2020 Summer Olympics.
This accomplishment is also a great boost for Dutch swimming as a whole. It shows that the nation has the potential and the talent to compete with the best in the world.
Thom de Boer’s success may inspire other Dutch swimmers to go above and beyond and strive to be the best they can be. Overall, Thom de Boer’s success is a great achievement that deserves to be celebrated.
His hard work and dedication have paid off and he is now a role model for aspiring Olympic athletes. He has set a new standard for Dutch swimmers and has proven that the nation can compete with the best in the world.
36. Johannes Bloemen
Johannes Bloemen was a Dutch swimmer who competed at the 1900 Summer Olympics. He was a part of the men’s 200 metre backstroke event.
He was one of the most successful swimmers from The Netherlands at the time, and his strong performance in the event helped him to make a name for himself in the world of competitive swimming. Bloemen competed in the 200 metre backstroke event against a field of highly experienced competitors from all over the world.
He put in a strong performance in the race, finishing in a respectable fourth place. His strong performance earned him recognition from his peers, and he was later awarded a bronze medal for his efforts. Bloemen’s Olympic success was just the beginning of his career.
He went on to compete in a number of other international swimming events, including the World Championships and the European Championships.
He also won a number of medals throughout his career, including a gold in the 100 metres backstroke at the 1906 European Championships. Johannes Bloemen was a pioneer in Dutch swimming, and his success at the 1900 Summer Olympics helped pave the way for future Dutch swimmers.
He set a high standard for his peers, and his dedication to the sport was an inspiration to those who followed in his footsteps. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential Dutch swimmers of all time.
37. Jo Stroomberg
Johanna Margaretha Stroomberg was a Dutch swimmer who made history as one of the few female athletes to compete in the 1936 Summer Olympics. Stroomberg was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands in 1916 and began swimming at a young age.
She was an accomplished swimmer, having competed in numerous events throughout her career, and held numerous Dutch national records in various swimming disciplines. Stroomberg was selected to be part of the Dutch Olympic team for the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Germany.
She competed in the 200 m breaststroke event with a time of 3 minutes and 4 seconds, making her the first Dutch woman to ever compete in the Olympics. She placed fourth in her event and was an inspiration for countless female athletes across the world.
Stroomberg was an extraordinary athlete who paved the way for female athletes everywhere and will forever be remembered for her incredible accomplishments.
38. Atie Voorbij
Aartje Johanna “Atie” Voorbij is a retired Dutch butterfly swimmer who had a successful career in competitive swimming. At the 1958 European Aquatics Championships she won a gold medal in the 4×100 m medley team event and also earned a silver medal in the 100 m butterfly event.
Voorbij also participated in the 1960 Summer Olympics, where she was fifth in the 100 m butterfly event. Throughout her career, Voorbij proved herself to be a talented swimmer, capable of competing at the highest level of competition.
Her achievements at the 1958 European Aquatics Championships are even more impressive when one considers that she was up against some of the best swimmers in the world.
Voorbij’s success at the Olympics also speaks to her dedication and determination. Voorbij’s career in competitive swimming has now come to an end, but her accomplishments will forever remain a testament to her skill and dedication.
Her gold medal at the 1958 European Aquatics Championships and fifth-place finish at the 1960 Summer Olympics are lasting reminders of her achievements. Aartje Johanna “Atie” Voorbij will forever be remembered as a successful Dutch butterfly swimmer.
39. Bouke Benenga
Bouke Benenga was a Dutch athlete with an impressive swimming and water polo career. He competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics in both the individual 100 metre freestyle competition and as part of the Dutch water polo team.
Unfortunately, he was eliminated in the first round of the freestyle event. However, the Dutch water polo team, of which Bouke Benenga was a part, had a successful outing, finishing 4th in the tournament. Bouke Benenga was a true champion in the world of swimming and water polo.
He was a fierce competitor and an impressive athlete. He had the courage and determination to compete at the highest level and show the world what he was capable of.
Even though he did not achieve the success he wanted in the individual freestyle event, his performance in the water polo tournament demonstrated his capabilities and earned him a place in the annals of Olympic history.
Bouke Benenga is a well-remembered Dutch athlete and his contribution to the Olympic games will never be forgotten. His performance in the 1908 Summer Olympics is a testament to his tenacity and skill as an athlete.
He is an example of what dedication and hard work can achieve, and his legacy will live on in the world of swimming and water polo.
40. Marianne Heemskerk
Marianne Yvonne Heemskerk is a former Olympic swimmer from the Netherlands who achieved great success in her career. At the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, Italy, she won the silver medal in the 100 m butterfly.
Additionally, she was part of the 4 × 100 m medley relay team that placed fourth. Heemskerk was a passionate and dedicated athlete, having trained and competed in butterfly for many years before reaching the Olympics.
Her hard work and determination paid off as she was able to win a silver medal at the Olympics. Despite not winning gold, her achievement was still a remarkable accomplishment. Heemskerk was also part of the 4 × 100 m medley relay team that placed fourth at the same Olympics.
This impressive feat was a testament to her prowess as a swimmer. She was able to contribute to the team’s success, even if they did not come away with a medal. Marianne Yvonne Heemskerk was an inspirational figure in the swimming world.
She showed that hard work and dedication can pay off, regardless of the outcome. Her success serves as an example of what can be achieved through determination and perseverance.
41. Manon Masseurs
Manon van der Meer-Masseurs is a former Dutch swimmer who had a successful career in the sport. She was a specialist in the freestyle event and competed in various international competitions throughout her career.
She represented the Netherlands in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and won a bronze medal in the 4x200m freestyle relay. She also won a silver medal in the 2001 European Championships in the 400m freestyle.
During her career, she held several Dutch national records and was a member of the Dutch national swimming team for many years. Her achievements and dedication to the sport earned her a place in the Dutch Swimming Hall of Fame in 2018.
Manon van der Meer-Masseurs is an example of a dedicated athlete who had a successful career in swimming.
42. Joke de Korte
Joke de Korte was a Dutch swimmer and Olympic athlete who achieved great success on the international stage. She competed in backstroke and freestyle swimming events and had a long and successful career.
In 1952, de Korte competed in the Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, where she placed fourth in the 100m backstroke event. Two years later, she continued her success by winning two silver medals at the 1954 European Aquatics Championships in Turin, Italy.
Throughout her career, de Korte was a fierce competitor and an inspiration to many young swimmers. She has since retired from competitive swimming and is remembered for her outstanding achievements in the sport.
43. Martine Janssen
Martine Stephanie Janssen was a highly accomplished swimmer from the Netherlands who represented her homeland at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. Her specialty was breaststroke, and she had high hopes of performing well in the 100m and 200m events.
Unfortunately, her dreams of making it to the finals in either event did not come to fruition, as she was eliminated in the heats. Janssen had been competing in swimming events since her childhood and had become one of the top breaststroke swimmers in the Netherlands.
Her performance at the Olympics was a culmination of her hard work and dedication, and despite the disappointment of being eliminated in the heats, she was proud to have been able to represent her country at the highest level.
Janssen has since retired from professional swimming, but her legacy remains. She is remembered as one of the most successful Dutch swimmers of all time, and her participation in the 1992 Olympic Games will always be remembered.
Conclusion
The Netherlands has a rich history of success in competitive swimming. From Olympians to world-record holders, the country has produced some of the greatest swimmers of all time.
With a strong commitment to excellence and hard work, Dutch swimmers continue to dominate the global swimming scene. From Pieter van den Hoogenband to Ranomi Kromowidjojo, the Netherlands has produced some of the best swimmers in the world.
