Fact of the Day
Jul 21, 1998
Tarzan was an Olympic Swimming Champion
Johnny Weissmuller, voted the Outstanding Swimmer of the First 50 years of this Century, was the movies' first Tarzan, and appeared in that role 19 times in 17 years. His monkey, "Cheetah", by association, also became famous. Then, for 10 years, Weissmuller became Jungle Jim on television. During his swimming career, Johnny won five Olympic gold medals, and 51 U.S. National titles. His world 100 yards record of 51 seconds stood for 17 years. Note: In those days there were no starting blocks, flip turns or lane ropes.
