Michael Francis Troy (1940 –2019)

After the 1960s Rome Olympics, Troy was on the cover of the Sports Illustrated. Photo courtesy World Open Water Swimming Association.

A native of Indianapolis and graduate of Indiana University, Troy was a member of the IU swim dynasty under coach James Edward “Doc” Counsilman, where he earned the AAU National Championship Title in the 100-meter butterfly competition and finished second in the 1959 Pan American Games. At the 1960 Olympics in Rome, Troy won an individual gold medal in the 200-meter butterfly and swam in the gold medal 800-meter freestyle relay, both in world record times. He was featured on the August 1960 Sports Illustrated cover.

After college, Troy served his country as a naval officer in the Underwater Demolition Team, precursor to the elite SEAL teams. He was nominated for a Silver Star for valor in combat in Vietnam.

Troy was elected to the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1971 and was a charter member of the Indiana University Athletic Hall of Fame. He coached in various states, and in 2004 was named National Teacher of the Year by the United States Swim School Association. He served as the National Director of the USA Paralympic swim team, Chairman of the International Section of the Olympic Committee, and Vice President of the American Swimming Coaches of America.

Troy died on August 3, 2019, at the age of 78.

Watch Troy swim here.

Michael Troy in the pool at the Rome Olympics. Photo courtesy International Swimming Hall of Fame.
Troy is buried in Section 212, Lot 804.