Ralph Flanagan

Biographical information

RolesCompeted in Olympic Games
SexMale
Full nameRalph Drew•Flanagan
Used nameRalph•Flanagan
Born14 December 1918 in Los Alamitos, California (USA)
Died8 February 1988 in Los Alamitos, California (USA)
AffiliationsGreater Miami Athletic Club
NOC United States
Medals OG
Gold 0
Silver 1
Bronze 0
Total 1

Biography

Ralph Flanagan, who swam for the Miami SC and the Miami Biltmore Aquatic Club, made his Olympic début in 1932 when he was eliminated in the semi-finals of the 1,500m freestyle. In 1936 he was a finalist in both the 400m and 1,500m free, but won his only medal in the relay. Flanagan won 20 AAU titles and set 26 U.S. and two world records and at one time held every U.S. freestyle record from 220y to one mile. After his retirement he stayed in swimming as a Red Cross professional and later was the director of safety programs for Los Angeles.

Results

Games Discipline (Sport) / Event NOC / Team Pos Medal As
1932 Summer Olympics Swimming (Aquatics) USA Ralph Flanagan
1,500 metres Freestyle, Men (Olympic) 5 h2 r2/3
1936 Summer Olympics Swimming (Aquatics) USA Ralph Flanagan
400 metres Freestyle, Men (Olympic) 4
1,500 metres Freestyle, Men (Olympic) 5
4 × 200 metres Freestyle Relay, Men (Olympic) United States 2 Silver