Trailblazing Olympian Breaks Barriers
Maritza McClendon etched her name in history as the first Black woman to make it onto the United States Olympic Swim Team. Her remarkable achievement at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where she won a silver medal, shattered barriers and inspired a generation of aspiring swimmers.
McClendon’s journey to Olympic glory began in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she was born. At the age of seven, she was diagnosed with severe scoliosis, a curvature of the spine. Swimming, initially prescribed as a medical remedy, soon became her passion and paved the way for an historic career.
Under the guidance of Olympic Coach Peter Banks in Brandon, Florida, McClendon emerged as one of the top high school recruits in the country, earning a full scholarship to the University of Georgia.
Collegiate Swimming Powerhouse
At the University of Georgia, McClendon’s prowess in the pool flourished under the tutelage of Olympic Coach Jack Bauerle. Her collegiate career was nothing short of remarkable, with 27 All-American honors, 11 NCAA titles, and historic feats that etched her name in the record books.
“Maritza is the only swimmer, male or female, to ever win conference championships in all freestyle events, from the 50-yard free to the 1,650-yard free,” a testament to her versatility and dominance in the sport.
Inspiring Water Safety and Diversity
Beyond her remarkable swimming achievements, McClendon has dedicated herself to advocating for water safety among minority communities. With alarming statistics showing that 64% of African American children and 45% of Hispanic children don’t know how to swim, her mission is to introduce water safety education and inspire the next generation of Olympic swimmers.
“If you don’t know, 64 percent of African-American children don’t know how to swim; and 45 percent of Hispanic children don’t know how to swim,” McClendon explained. “So, it’s really important to introduce them to the education as to why we do water safety.”
A Legacy of Excellence and Inclusion
McClendon’s illustrious career has earned her numerous accolades, including 12 international medals, World Championship titles, and American record-breaking feats. She has served as a Team USA Team Captain, received the USA Swimming Diversity and Inclusion Award, and been inducted into the University of Georgia Circle of Honor.
Today, McClendon continues to inspire and pave the way for diversity and inclusion in aquatics, serving on various boards and councils, including the USA Swimming’s DEI Council and Team BLAC (Black Leadership in Aquatics Coalition).
