JAMES “JIMMY” PHELAN

1999 INDUCTION TO THE RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC HALL OF FAME

Competing for the Rhode Island Aquatic Association, Cranston YMCA and Brown Swim Club, Jimmy Phelan was one of the most dominant and versatile swimmers in Rhode Island history. As an age group swimmer, Phelan held over 100 records at one time or another, some of which still stand.

At New England Championship meets, Phelan was always one of the meet’s top finishers during his career. As an age group swimmer, Jimmy regularly competed in meets in Quebec, Canada where he also established records.

While competing for LaSalle Academy, Phelan. received All-State recognition in the 500 yard freestyle and received recognition as Swimmer of the Year in 1973 by the National Swimming Pool Institute.

As a senior level swimmer, competing for the Brown Swim Club under the tutelage of Ed Reed, Phelan established himself as one of the east’s best distance swimmers. He regularly became a finalist at regional meets while competing against the likes of Craig Beardsly and Rick Carey, both of whom became world record holders.

Jimmy competed in relay events at the United States Senior Nationals in California and later competed at Brown University. Phelan still holds Rhode Island Senior and 15-18 age group records in the 200 butterfly and distance freestyle events.