Helen Yate

Helen Yate began her swimming career in her native Plymouth, England in the 1930s and became the British national champion in the 100 metres backstroke in 1938. World War II slowed her career, but did not stop it, as she remained in her hometown during her tenure with the Women’s Royal Naval Service and was able to continue training. She was demobilized early and jumped back into competition immediately after the conflict ended, which eventually led her to be selected to represent Great Britain at the 1948 Summer Olympics. There she competed in the 100 metres backstroke and was eliminated in the semifinals. She had much more success at the 1950 British Empire Games, however, winning silver in the 3x110 yards medley relay (with Elizabeth Church and Margaret Wellington) and bronze in the 110 yards backstroke and 4x110 yards freestyle relay (alongside Grace Wood, Lillian Preece and Margaret Wellington). She retired from active competition shortly after this tournament.