Olympic Gold Medalist Heather Simmons-Carrasco Honored with 2026 International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction

USA Artistic Swimming is proud to celebrate and honor the International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) as it prepares to host its 61st Annual Honoree Induction Ceremony on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. This prestigious event recognizes the extraordinary individuals who have shaped aquatic sports around the world, and the Class of 2026 is no exception—featuring 11 Honorees from seven countries whose impact spans generations and disciplines.

Among those being inducted is Heather Simmons-Carrasco (USA), a cornerstone of one of the most dominant eras in American artistic swimming history. Heather was a vital member of the first Olympic gold medal-winning team in synchronized swimming at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games—an achievement that forever changed the sport’s landscape in the United States and elevated it on the global stage.

Following the Atlanta Games, Heather and a core group of her teammates remained together, forming a U.S. team that went undefeated in international team competition. Even before Olympic success, Heather’s excellence was evident. Prior to 1996, she helped Team USA earn seven gold medals across major international competitions, including the Olympic Games, FINA World Championships, and FINA World Cups.

Heather’s career is defined by longevity, consistency, and deep roots within the artistic swimming community. She both began and concluded her remarkable 18-year career under the leadership of Chris Carver with the legendary Santa Clara Aquamaids, one of the most respected programs in the sport. In addition to her Olympic and world titles, Heather captured team gold medals at the Pan American Games, Pan Pacific Championships, French Open, and Swiss Open. With the Aquamaids, she earned four USA National Team championships and claimed international team victories at the French Open and Mallorca Open.

Beyond her impressive medal count, Heather Simmons-Carrasco is remembered for her leadership, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence—qualities that continue to inspire athletes, coaches, and the broader artistic swimming community today.

USA Artistic Swimming is honored to celebrate Heather’s induction and to recognize the International Swimming Hall of Fame for preserving and elevating the legacy of aquatic sports. The 61st Annual Honoree Induction Ceremony promises to be a meaningful celebration of history, excellence, and the individuals who have shaped the sport for generations to come.