As a 16-time national champion, 3-time Olympian and 4-time Olympic medalist, Peter Vanderkaay – a former competitive swimmer who specialized in freestyle events – knows the dedication and perseverance it takes to chase his dreams (in and out of the pool). “I take immense pride not only in the medals and records but also in the relentless dedication and effort required to reach that level. Behind every achievement lay countless hours of intense training and perseverance.”

A few of Peter’s most notable achievements include:

• Member of the US Olympic team in 2004, 2008 and 2012
• 4-time Olympic Games medalist (2 gold, 2 bronze)
• 5-time FINA World Championships medalist (4 gold, 1 silver)
• 3-time Pan Pacific Championships medalist (2 gold, 2 bronze)
• 3-time Universiade medalist (1 silver, 2 bronze)

The skills and mental fortitude Peter acquired from his competitive swimming career have transitioned with him from Olympian to family man, and helped prepare him for his most important and prized role yet: Dad. Swimming was an integral part of his formative years, and now he gets to share his lifelong passion with his kids.

“The splashing, floating and sheer thrill of swimming creates unforgettable core memories during these early years.”

While he shares in the joy of swimming with his own kids, Peter believes every child should have the opportunity to learn to swim, regardless of finances, pool access or transportation. Peter and the Vanderkaay family have been supporters and volunteers for the YMCA’s Detroit Swims Initiative for more than a decade – their mission is to teach every child in Metro Detroit to swim in order to reduce the risk of drowning and “to ensure that every child can be confident in and around the water.”

Swimming is part of the Vanderkaay legacy. Both of Peter’s parents were competitive swimmers, along with his three brothers. (Fun fact: In 2008, all four brothers qualified for the 2008 Olympic trials.) Beyond swimming, Peter’s parents instilled in him a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

“They encouraged me not only to play sports and compete but also to savor the beauty of nature.”

Peter and his wife are eager to pass on this love of nature to their kids, “ensuring they too can experience the joy and wonder of the natural world.” In their free time, they love to take their kids out in the Veer Cruiser City XL and spend time at local parks, visit the Detroit Zoo and explore Michigan’s beautiful beaches and lakefronts.

Q&A

Q: What does swimming represent to you?

A: To me, swimming is more than just a life skill; it's a multifaceted challenge. It pushes me both physically and mentally, offering a rewarding way to escape the distractions of daily life and find a moment of clarity. Additionally, swimming has been a significant part of my formative years, shaping who I am today.

Q: What is the most challenging swimming accomplishment or thing you are most proud of?

A: The pinnacle of my swimming career was earning the chance to compete for Team USA for over a decade—a feat I’m incredibly proud of. I take immense pride not only in the medals and records but also in the relentless dedication and effort required to reach that level. Behind every achievement lay countless hours of intense training and perseverance.

Q: Growing up yourself did you spend much time outdoors?

A: Growing up, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep appreciation for the outdoors. They encouraged me not only to play sports and compete but also to savor the beauty of nature. Our summers were filled with camping trips, swimming in the Great Lakes, fishing and hunting, and exploring the forests of Northern Michigan. These experiences taught me to cherish the tranquility and splendor of the outdoors in every season. Now, my wife and I are committed to passing on this love of nature to our own kids, ensuring they too can experience the joy and wonder of the natural world.

Q: What are some of the regular outdoor activities you do as a family?

A: Around our home, we love spending time at local parks and visiting the Detroit Zoo. When we have more time, we enjoy trips to my in-laws' farm or exploring Michigan's beautiful beaches and lakefronts. As our kids grow older, we're excited to introduce them to more age-appropriate outdoor activities.

Q: What is your favorite thing about sharing your love of swimming with your kids?

A: The best part of swimming with my son is witnessing his excitement in the water. The splashing, floating, and sheer thrill of swimming creates unforgettable core memories during these early years. Beyond the joy it brings, we also believe that learning to swim is a crucial life skill, important not only for their enjoyment but for their safety as well.

Q: What do you hope your kids will take away from your future outdoor experiences together?

A: I hope my kids will grow to appreciate the value of outdoor experiences. It's a wonderful way to relax, disconnect, and reflect, while also promoting physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What is your favorite Olympic memory?

A: It's difficult to choose just one favorite Olympic memory because I've been fortunate to have so many amazing experiences. Of course, winning medals was incredibly exciting, but some of my most cherished memories involve the time spent with teammates, coaches, family, and friends who supported me along the way. Overall, I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to compete for Team USA and to have traveled the world as part of this incredible journey.