Poland’s Józef Lewicki first competed as a professional swimmer in 1948, winning his first medal at the national championships two years later in the 200 metres freestyle. From there Lewicki became a key member of the Polish national team, often swimming in the 4 x 200 metres relay. In 1952 he was part of the Polish quartet that finished 12th in the 4 × 200 metres freestyle relay at the Helsinki Olympics. During his nine-year career he was the national champion in the 200 metres freestyle, along with winning silver in both the 100 and 400 metres freestyle. Lewicki also played and coached water polo for multiple clubs before working as a swimming teacher at a primary school. For his contribution to swimming he was awarded with a gold medal for merit to the Polish Olympic movement in 2002.
Poland