RIO
DE JANEIRO – The U.S. women’s 400-meter medley relay team of Kathleen
Baker, Lilly King, Simone Manuel and Dana Vollmer today made history by
securing the 1,000th gold medal for Team USA at the Olympic
Games in summer competition. The milestone highlights Team USA’s
sustained competitive excellence, dating back to the first modern
Olympic Games in 1896.
On the final night of pool swimming in Rio, the U.S. won the race in a
time of 3:53.13, ahead of Australia (3:55.00) and Denmark (3:55.01).
The first U.S. gold medal was won by triple jumper James Connolly on April 6, 1896.
“One thousand gold medals is a remarkable achievement made possible
by the culture of sport that is the fabric and foundation of Team USA,”
said USOC CEO Scott Blackmun. “It is a testament first and foremost to
our athletes, but it also reveals the impact of the support provided by
our National Governing Bodies, our sponsors and donors, and American
fans. This is an accomplishment we celebrate together.”
Several USOC sponsors will generously donate gifts to the swimmers in
recognition of the milestone. The gifts will have a theme of 1,000 to
highlight the longevity of Team USA's success.
Team USA entered the Rio Olympics with 977 gold medals in summer
competition, and the relay team’s podium-topping performance marked the
23rd of the Games for the Americans.
Of the 1,000 gold medals, more than half (569) have come from track
and field (323), and swimming (246). The 23 U.S. gold medals thus far in
Rio were won in swimming (15), gymnastics (2), track and field (2),
cycling (1), judo (1), rowing (1), and shooting (1).
The former Soviet Union is second on the all-time list with 395 gold
medals, while Great Britain is second among active countries with 245.
A comprehensive Team USA History Book can be found here.
United States Olympic Committee
1 Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
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