For those in a hurry:
- Oscar Swahn was a Swedish shooter who competed in three Olympic Games between 1908 and 1920.
- He won six medals, including three golds, and became the oldest Olympic medalist and the oldest Olympic champion in history.
- He started shooting at 47 and continued until he was 76, despite losing his sight in one eye and suffering from arthritis.
- He was known for his calm and steady aim, his modesty and his sportsmanship.
- He is an example of how age is not a barrier to pursue your dreams and achieve excellence.
Who was Oscar Swahn?
Oscar Swahn was born in 1847 in Sweden. He was interested in hunting and shooting from a young age, but he did not start competing until he was 47. He joined a local shooting club and soon became one of the best marksmen in the country.
He made his Olympic debut in 1908 in London, where he won two gold medals and one bronze in the team events. He was 60 years old at the time, making him the oldest Olympic debutant ever.
He returned to the Olympics in 1912 in Stockholm, where he won another gold medal in the team event and a bronze medal in the individual event. He was 64 years old then, and he became the oldest Olympic champion ever.
Oscar Swahn: How did he win a silver medal at 72?
Swahn’s last Olympic appearance was in 1920 in Antwerp, where he competed in the team event with his son Alfred. He was 72 years old then, and he faced many challenges. He had lost his sight in one eye due to an accident, he had arthritis in his hands and legs, and he had to travel by train for three days to reach Belgium.
Despite these difficulties, Swahn showed remarkable skill and determination. He scored 93 out of 100 points, helping his team win a silver medal. He became the oldest Olympic medalist ever, a record that still stands today.
What made him so successful?
Swahn’s success was based on his passion for shooting, his dedication to practice, and his mental strength. He had a calm and steady aim, which he attributed to his habit of smoking cigars. He also had a modest and humble attitude, never boasting about his achievements or complaining about his problems. He respected his opponents and congratulated them on their victories.
Swahn’s story is an inspiration for anyone who wants to pursue their dreams and overcome their challenges. He proved that age is not a limit, but an opportunity to show your talent and experience. He also showed that sportsmanship and fair play are more important than winning or losing.
Conclusion
Oscar Swahn was a remarkable shooter who competed in three Olympic Games between 1908 and 1920. He won six medals, including three golds, and became the oldest Olympic medalist and the oldest Olympic champion in history. He started shooting at 47 and continued until he was 76, despite losing his sight in one eye and suffering from arthritis. He was known for his calm and steady aim, his modesty and his sportsmanship. He is an example of how age is not a barrier to pursue your dreams and achieve excellence.
