The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? BY MICHAEL SPATH T he first thing any visitor to an Olympian's home usually asks is, 'Can I see your medal?' Many ath- letes turn their accomplishment into a shrine, dedicating a single room to their achievements. In some fashion, it is often displayed prominently, or for the nervous types, kept in a vault, either at home or at the bank. Peter Vanderkaay keeps his four Olympic medals, including two gold medallions, in a drawer, pol- ishing them only when he is invited to speaking engagements or attends swimming clinics. A three-time Olympian, qualify- ing for the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Sum- mer Games, and a five-time national champion during his Michigan ca- reer from 2003-06, Vanderkaay cher- ishes the Games and the swimming career he enjoyed, but he's not one to boast. "It was a life-changer to be on the Olympic Team just once, let alone three times," Vanderkaay said. "Be- ing an Olympian, being a gold med- WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Peter Vanderkaay Ranks Among The Best Swimmers In U-M History Vanderkaay was a three-time Olympian, swimming in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Summer Games, and he won four medals — two gold medals in relays and two bronze medals in individual events. PHOTO COURTESY MICHIGAN ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS