Oscar Swahn

1847 – 1927

It is usually thought that the Olympics are only for young people.

However, I became the oldest competitor to win a medal.

It happened at the VII Olympiad, in 1920.

I was 72 years and 279 days old at the time.

So, it proves performance, rather than age, counts.

Great celebrations took place.

As a member of the Swedish team, I had an enjoyable time.

I participated in the running deer shooting event.

It was a sport in which I had participated since I was young.

But, only in my latter years was I recognized for my abilities.

That started in 1908.

I took part in the games of the IV Olympiad, held in London.

St Paul’s Cathedral

In all, 22 sports were contested, with representatives from 22 countries.

The games were due to have been held in Rome.

But, Mount Vesuvius had erupted two years earlier.

London was selected as the alternative location.

At a ceremony in St Paul’s Cathedral, the Olympic creed was read out.

The Bishop of Pennsylvania gave the address and said:

“The most important thing in the Olympic Games is

Not to win, but to take part, just as the most important thing in life

Is not the triumph, but the struggle.

The essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well.”

I totally agreed with that, as I was 60 years of age at the time.

So, I participated in that spirit and did not expect to win.

To my surprise, I gained a gold medal in the individual event.

In addition, our Swedish team won the gold medal.

My eyes and reactions were still strong.

So, I continued to practise for the running deer shooting event.

It was a great way of making friends.

Little did I know it would enable me to attend three Olympics.

So, in 1912, at the age of 64, I competed once again.

That time, the games were held in Sweden, my home country.

My team won the gold medal again.

In the individual competition, I gained a bronze medal.

The good news was that my son won the gold.

So, we had treble celebrations.

But, soon, they were cut short.

Within two years, the Germans started the First World War.

They invaded many countries and killed and maimed people.

They destroyed the Olympics, as no competitions could be held in 1916.

By the time an armistice was signed, I was 70 years of age.

But, I was still enjoying my sporting activities.

So, I continued to enter competitions.

My colleagues said I was in good form and should go to the Olympics.

Therefore, it was a privilege to be selected for the Swedish team.

So, in 1920, at the age of 72, I set off for Antwerp, in Belgium.

It was a long journey, but well worth it.

I gained fourth place in the single shot, running deer event.

Also, I won a silver medal in the double shot team competition.

So, it proves you are never too old, if you have ability.

I only wish the Olympics had been revived earlier in my career.