James Magnussen

James Magnussen

Fast Facts

Discipline: Freestyle
Date of Birth: 11/04/1991
Birthplace: Port Macquarie, now based in Sydney
Nickname: The Missile
Sporting Idols: Steve Waugh, Michael Klim & Darren Lockyer
Favourite Quote: “What we do in life echoes in eternity”
Biggest challenge: Finding a way to swim the perfect race

Biography

He is only 20 years old but International swimming sensation James Magnussen has already stamped himself as one of Australia’s most exciting athletes ahead of next year’s 2012 London Olympic Games.

Magnussen’s gold in the 100m freestyle at the 2011 FINA World Championships in Shanghai made him the first Australian man to win swimming’s glamour event since the World Championships were established in 1973, and the first Australian to win over this distance at a major meet in 43 years.

At the 2011 FINA World Championships, James also led Australia’s 4×100m freestyle team to gold with his opening split of 47.49, making him the fastest man in history over the distance wearing a textile suit. He also led Australia’s 4×100m medley relay to silver, with a final leg in an amazing 47 seconds.

At the 2011 Australian Swimming Championships, James become the new 100m freestyle National champion after having anchored the Australian men’s 4×100m freestyle relay team to a gold medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

The sky is the limit for the man they call The Missile.

Major Achievements

2011 FINA World Championships – Shanghai
Gold – 100m Freestyle
Gold – 4×100m Freestyle Relay
Silver – 4×100m Medley Relay

2011 Australian National Championships – Sydney
Gold – 100m Freestyle

2010 Commonwealth Games – Delhi
Gold – 4×100m Freestyle Relay

2010 Pan Pacific Championships – California
Silver – 4×100m Freestyle Relay