Daniel Kowalski

Daniel Kowalski was a four-time Olympic medalist who won a gold medal in the 2000 4x200 freestyle relay. He also won silver in the 1996 1,500 metres, his specialty. Kowalski was prevented from more victories during his career by the presence of his countryman, Kieren Perkins, the dominant distance freestyler in that era.

Despite that obstacle, Kowalski won multiple international medals, including three medals at the World Championships, with gold in the 1998 4x200 free relay, silver in the 1994 1,500 metres, and bronze in that event in 1998. At the Pan Pacs, he won eight medals in 1993 and 1995, with golds in the 400 and 800 freestyles and the 4x200 free relay in 1995. Kowalski added six medals at the World Short-Course Championships, with five golds, winning the 400 and 1,500 in both 1993 and 1995, and the 4x200 free relay in 1995. He also claimed five medals at the 1994 and 1998 Commonwealth Games, with one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals.

Kowalski was accorded many honors, including the 1995 Australian Institute of Sport Award of Excellence. In 1998 he was named a UN Sporting Ambassador. Kowalski retired after the 2002 season.