The International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) has announced two former British athletes as part of its class of 2016.
Sir Peter Heatly (Diving) and Hilda James (Swimming) will be inducted during the ISHOF’s annual honours weekend in June next year in California.
Throughout a period of 27 years, Sir Peter Heatly contributed to the sport of swimming and diving at local, national and international levels as competitor, team manager, official and administrator. He was a member of both the FINA and LEN Diving committees from 1966 to 1988, Honorary Secretary of the FINA Committee from 1972 to 1984 and Chairman from 1984 to 1988. He was Chairman of Great Britain’s Swimming Federation in 1981 and again in 1992. In 1990, he was installed as a Knight of the Realm by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Sir Peter Heatly will be enshrined posthumously.
Hilda James is credited with introducing the six beat crawl stroke to England, a measure which made swimmers much faster. Nicknamed the “English Comet” she held every British freestyle record, 100 yards to the mile. She became a darling of the press and was expected to win three gold medals, all in the freestyle at the 1924 Olympic Games. Unfortunately, living in the Victorian era, Hilda’s parents controversially prevented her from competing in the Games. After her swimming career, Hilda spent much of her time coaching and giving demonstrations. James will be honoured posthumously.
“This is an exceptional class of honourees,” said Camillo Cametti, of Verona, Italy, Chairman of ISHOF’s International Selection Committee, “and one of the largest classes in recent years. This class also includes many stars well known in their own countries and around the world, and five pioneers, who have long been overlooked for their accomplishments. This is truly a great class and I want to personally congratulate all Honourees.”