While the pre-Olympic buzz was centered around U.S. gymnast Simone Biles, another Team USA athlete that shares her name has been just as impactful.  Last night, swimmer Simone Manuel made history in the 100 meter freestyle race. 

Manuel became the first African American women to ever medal in an individual event at the Olympics.  She took the gold in a tie with Canadian swimmer Penny Oleksiak.  

Each woman posted an Olympic-record time of 52.70 and beat the current world record holder Cate Campbell, who finished sixth.  No American swimmer had won old in the 100 meter free since 1984.  

Prior to touching the wall first, Manuel already experience Olympic glory with a silver medal as a member of the U.S. 4x100 free relay team.  She is also competing as an individual in the 50 free at these Game.  

There is no question that Manuel will be one of the post-Olympic stars with plenty of endorsement opportunities and speaking engagements headed her way.  She used her platform after finishing first to address some of the ongoing issues in America that are connected to race.  

Even before heading to Rio, Manuel had an impressive resume to market.  Last year, she won the 50 and 100-yard free at the NCAA Championships while swimming for Stanford University. 

To inquire about Simone Manuel's speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.

Simone Manuel Talks About Winning Gold in the 100 Meter Freestyle: