Luis Omedes

Luis Omedes was a talented sportsman in multiple disciplines and the only Spanish Olympian to have competed at both the Summer and Winter Olympics. Omedes came from a sporting family, with both his father Luis and his brother Juan representing Spain at the Olympics in rowing. Omedes was also a rower, winning two national titles in 1951 and 1952. Omedes competed in the coxed fours at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. The Spanish crew finished in fourth place in their first heat and third place in their repechage heat. Omedes was also the flag bearer for Spain at the Opening Ceremony.

Omedes’ favourite sport was tennis. In 1955, with Manuel Santana, he became the Spanish junior doubles champion. Omedes played in seven editions of the Conde de Godó trophy between 1954 and 1963. In 1961 Omedes reached the semi-finals of the Catalan championship.

Omedes combined his tennis practice with field hockey and played for Real Club de Polo de Barcelona. He was part of the team that won the Spanish hockey championship in 1964. This performance got Omedes shortlisted for national selection to compete at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Omedes was ruled out of the Tokyo Games, however, with an injury. Whilst at Real Club, Omedes also played polo, and competed in veteran events well into his 70s.

In 1967, Juan Antonio Samaranch became the President of the Comité Olímpico Español, and was tasked with reinvigorating winter sports. As a result, Spanish bobsleigh and luge teams were sent to the 1968 Grenoble Olympics. Omedes competed in the latter, placing 45th out of 47 athletes to finish the event.