Richard Kempster Degener, born on March 14, 1912, in Michigan, earned the nickname "The Fred Astaire of Diving" for his remarkable achievements in the sport.
At the 1932 Olympics, Degener claimed the bronze medal in the 3 meter springboard event, a feat he would later surpass by winning the gold medal in the same event at the 1936 Olympic games in Berlin, Germany.
In recognition of his outstanding performance, Degener was honored at a banquet in Detroit, Michigan, in April 1936, which marked the first celebration of Champions Day.
The White House later recognized Degener's achievements by featuring him on a plaque alongside four other champion athletes, dubbing Detroit the City of Champions in July 1936.
During his collegiate years from 1931 to 1934, Degener represented Michigan and won every diving contest, claiming both the Big Ten and National Collegiate championships.
In addition to his collegiate success, Degener won four Amateur Athletic Union Nationals in the high board as a representative of the Detroit Athletic Club, three National Collegiate Athletic Association titles for the University of Michigan, and five consecutive three-meter springboard titles and two one-meter titles at the Indoor Amateur Athletic Unions.
Degener eventually turned professional, joining the Billy Rose Aquacade when it opened in Cleveland.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Degener was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1971.
Richard Kempster Degener passed away at the age of 83 on August 24, 1995.
