ROBERT NELSON

1991 INDUCTION TO THE RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC HALL OF FAME

            Bob began his swimming career at an early age and from 1955-1960 consistently won various age group championships including 10 and under, 11-12, and 13-14 year old age groups.  From 1962 through 1964 Bob took first place in all of the six State Championship events, ranging from the 100 yard events in each stroke to the 500 and 1500 yard freestyle. Bob was perhaps the top swimmer in New England from 1962-1964 when he swam for Cranston High East under Ed Golden.  He held All-State and New England swimming titles and records in the 200 individual medley.  In fact, Bob held State and New England records in most of the events including the 1500 free and the mile swim.  He was voted the Outstanding Rhode Island Swimmer of the Year in 1962, 1963, and 1964.

            Bob swam for the Naval Academy from 1964-1968.  He competed in all four strokes and was All-American in the 100 yard IM.  In 1967 and 1968, bob scored 4th and 5th, respectively, in the 400 yard IM in the Division I Eastern Championships  He was among the top swimmers on the Naval Academy team, lettering in varsity swimming all four years and holding records at the Naval Academy in the 200 fly, 200 IM, and 100 yard free.

            From 1968-1975 Bob continued his military service after graduating from the Naval Academy and in 1975 received his M.S. degree in Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.  He currently resides in Bath, Kaine.

            Bob Nelson’s swimming career from 1956 to 1968 stands as one of the most successful in Rhode Island competitive swimming.