About Murray Rose

Murray Rose, AM (6 January 1939 - 5 April 2012) was a six-time Olympic medalist (four gold, one silver, one bronze), and at one time held the world records in the 400-metre, 800-metre, and 1500-metre freestyle (long course). He made his Olympic debut at the 1956 Melbourne Summer Olympics as a 17-year-old and won three Olympic medals, all gold. Four years later, as a 21-year-old, he won three Olympic medals (one gold, one silver, one bronze) at the 1960 Rome Summer Olympics.

In 1983, Dawn Fraser and Murray Rose were named the greatest Australian Olympians in history. It followed an Australian-wide vote by past and present Olympians.

He was Inducted in The Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985 as an Athlete Member for his contribution to the sport of swimming and was Elevated to Legend of Australian Sport” in 1999.

A deeply committed Patron of Rainbow Club Australia, he was passionate about allowing special needs children to explore their abilities through sporting and recreational activities. Upon his death in 2012, Rainbow Club Australia renamed our annual ocean swim, Murray Rose Malabar Magic Ocean Swim, in his honour. His dedication, drive and his ability to be a friend to all, continues today as the Magic goes from strength to strength and is known as the most “inclusive swims on the calendar.”