Robert Frederik BAETENS

Together with Michel Knuysen, Bob Baetens was one of the leading coxless pairs in the early 1950s. They won two major awards, the 1951 European title in Mâcon, and the 1953 Henley Royal Regatta, earning them the so-called "Silver Goblets". In addition they won a silver medal at the Helsinki Olympics, finishing behind the American boat. Additionally, they earned three more medals in the Europeans: silver in 1953 and 1955, and bronze in 1956. After his rowing career, Baetens remained very involved in the sport. He was involved as a board member of ARV, his club in Antwerp, and managed its rowing course. In addition, he founded the Flemish Rowing Federation and acted as team selector in the 1970s, including for the 1976 Games.