Kieran Perkins

Kieren Perkins is a hero of the Australian sporting arena. From Captain of Swimming at Brisbane Boys’ College in 1990 to dual Olympic gold medallist just six years later, Kieren has added an impressively long list of awards and achievements to his name.

His technically perfect Olympic gold-medal winning performances at Atlanta and Barcelona over fifteen hundred metres have become historic moments in Australian sport.

In a country where sport is a part of our culture, Kieren Perkins’ success earns him a place alongside heroes like Dawn Fraser and Sir Donald Bradman.

Kieren has held 18 Australian records, three world records, and three Commonwealth records and has represented Australia all over the world, including in Monte Carlo, Rome, Auckland, Canada, Barcelona, Atlanta and, of course, at the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Before the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, Kieren described the famous 1500 metre freestyle victory at the Barcelona Olympic Games, which saw him set a new world record, as his greatest swimming victory. In 1993 his achievements were recognised with the Young Australian of the Year Award, and the Order of Australia Medal.

His record breaking performances made him the greatest distance swimmer in the world and have redefined human ability in long distance swimming.

Kieren’s domination of the 1500 metre freestyle event looked to be over during the run up to the Atlanta Olympics. He barely made the Olympic team and then qualified for the 1500 metre final with the slowest time. It was in the race he proved his incredible strength, determination and athleticism to the world. Blitzing the field, he won a truly memorable gold medal, his outstanding victory capturing the hearts of Australia.

Following his silver medal swim at the Sydney 2000 Games, Kieren announced his retirement and moved with his family to Sydney shortly after to begin the next chapter of his life.

Since his retirement from competition Kieren has been appointed to the board of the Australian Sports Commission and has moved into the role of corporate ambassador and media personality.

Kieren has recently taken on a new challenge as Head of Business Development and Acquisitions at NAB Private Wealth in Melbourne.

Kieren’s story of motivation, determination and success will inspire every audience.