Spitz, Mark Andrew

Spitz, Mark Andrew, 1950–, American swimmer, b. Modesto, Calif. He holds records for winning the most gold medals at one Olympic games (seven, in 1972 at Munich) and shares the record for most gold medals overall (nine, in 1968 and 1972). His 1972 victories were in the 100-m and 200-m freestyle, the 100-m and 200-m butterfly, and as a member of three relay teams. In 1968, at Mexico City, he won golds in two relays, a silver in the 100-m butterfly, and a bronze in the 100-m freestyle. Spitz retired and became a television sports commentator.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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