Olympic gold medalist and world champion in synchronized swimming, known for her technical skill and artistic expression in the pool.
Candy Costie, an American competitor and Olympic champion in synchronized swimming, is renowned for her exceptional skill in the water. With her partner Tracie Ruiz, she secured a silver medal in the women's duet at the 1982 World Aquatics Championships, setting the stage for a series of impressive victories that would cement her status as a legend in the sport.
In the early 1980s, Costie and Ruiz dominated the synchronized swimming scene, capturing gold medals in the women's duet at the 1983 Pan American Games and the 1984 Summer Olympics. Their partnership also yielded four US national championships and one NCAA national championship, solidifying their position as one of the most successful duos in the sport.
After retiring from Olympic competition, Costie transitioned seamlessly into a career as a commentator for CBS and ESPN television networks, covering national and international sporting events. Her expertise and charisma behind the microphone made her a sought-after analyst, further expanding her influence in the sports world.
Costie's reputation as a dynamic speaker and thought leader led to numerous public speaking engagements with Fortune 500 companies such as American Express and Coca-Cola. Her ability to inspire and motivate audiences made her a coveted presence on the corporate circuit.
In 2000, Costie joined Merrill Companies, a multifaceted commercial real estate development firm, as a principal. Her role involved directing marketing, public relations, and social media efforts for the firm, as well as contributing to the development of office, retail, and community engagement projects. One of her most notable initiatives was the Museum at Prairiefire, a cultural institution dedicated to education and community outreach.
In 2008, Costie, along with her husband Fred, founded the Museum of Prairiefire Foundation, a unique partnership with the American Museum of Natural History in New York. The museum, which opened to the public in 2014, provides daily programming and events focused on education and community engagement, with a particular emphasis on supporting underserved citizens in the greater Kansas City metro area.
Candy Costie's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of synchronized swimming and beyond. Her dedication to education, community engagement, and philanthropy has inspired countless individuals, and her legacy continues to grow through her work with the Museum at Prairiefire.
76 Years Old
Won seven gold medals in the 1972 Munich Olympics, setting world records in all seven events, cementing his status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time.
74 Years Old
An American competitive swimmer who won three gold medals and one silver medal at the 1968 Summer Olympics, setting multiple world records in the process.
69 Years Old
Australian swimming legend and coach who won five Olympic medals, including three golds, and held multiple world records in the 1970s.
68 Years Old
East German swimmer who won four Olympic gold medals and set multiple world records in the 1970s, dominating women's swimming in her era.
53 Years Old
An American competitive swimmer who won twelve Olympic medals, including eight gold medals, and holds numerous world records in various events.
59 Years Old
An American swimming legend and Olympic medalist, known for her record-breaking performances and inspiring comeback at age 41, also a TV commentator and author.
44 Years Old
An American swimmer who won a record 20 World Championship medals and 12 Olympic medals, including three gold medals, and is considered one of the greatest swimmers of all time.
41 Years Old
The most decorated Olympian of all time, holding a record 28 medals, including 23 gold medals, dominating the sport of swimming with unparalleled speed and endurance.
