Thelma Kalama got to the 1948 Olympic Trials because Hawaiian beach boys took up a collection among the bathers so she could afford the trip. She placed fourth at both the 100m and 400m freestyle events at the trials, which earned her a relay spot at the Olympics. She won three AAU titles and set one American record for the 400m freestyle. Thelma Kalama later joined the marines, eventually becoming a sergeant. She also attended college at Miami of Ohio and was married for a short time.
Athlete Olympic Results Content
You may like