A History of Oregon Masters Swimming: 1971
It is only fitting that we first look at the beginnings of Masters Swimming nationwide. Ransom J. Arthur, MD, is considered to be the father of Masters Swimming, however without the help of John Spannuth , President of American Swimming Coaches Association in the late 60's, it would have taken many more years to bring about this organization.
Ransom Arthur
had been trying to interest the Amateur Athletic Union in such
a program for 10 years during the 1960s to no avail. Along came encouragement
from John Spannuth, who offered the use of the Amarillo Aquatic Club facility
for the first national championships. Encouragement was also forthcoming from
Bruce Hopping, Chair and Founder of the Kalos Kagathos Foundation of Laguna
Beach, CA.
Overcoming the many obstacles, they finally got the entry blanks out and with a total of 45 swimmers, held the first Nationals at Amarillo, Texas. In October of 1971 Masters became an official part of the AAU, this was followed by the start of SWIM-MASTER, a monthly publication, with June Krauser , of Ft Lauderdale, serving as Editor. Early on, the Navy lent a big helping hand, by supplying Dr. Arthur with the funds, equipment and manpower to research the program. It was found conclusively, that swimming was the best exercise overall. They started with age groups of 25+, 35+, and 45+. The events contested included: 50-100-200-400 Free, 100 & 200 Back, 100 Breast and 100 Fly, 100 Medley and Relays.
In 1971 the contestants at Nationals numbered 112. John Spannuth arranged for a dinner at the country club in Amarillo. The 200 Breast, 50 Fly and Relays 25-34 and 144+ were added. The frog and dolphin kicks were both declared legal for the fly.
