Samantha Riley

One of Australia’s greatest female athletes, Samantha Riley is a legendary swimmer of Aboriginal descent. She appeared in the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games, taking home a total of three medals in addition to considerable success at the World Championships.

Born in Brisbane, she first saw success with the Australian team during the 1991 World Championships in Perth. The next year, she made her first appearance in the Olympics in Barcelona, taking home the bronze medal in the 100-metre breaststroke. She continued her success at the 1996 games in Atlanta, once again earning the bronze in the 100-metre and winning silver in the 4 x 100-metre medley. Throughout her career, she also saw considerable success in other international competitions. She won a total of nine medals (five gold) at the World Championships, nine medals (four gold) at the Pan Pacific Championships, and five medals (four gold) at the Commonwealth Games.

Riley’s career included three world records prior to her retirement. She continues to be a recognizable figure in Australian culture, having a street named after her in Kellyville, a suburb of Sydney. She’s an ambassador for the Royal Life Saving Association’s Keep Watch program and is involved in other charitable efforts. A highly respected speaker, she’s been invited by several corporations and sports organizations to present on a variety of topics.