Glenn's Story
Glenn Patching emerged as one of Australia’s leading backstroke and freestyle swimmers during the 1970s. He made his Olympic debut at Montreal 1976 aged 18, placing 18th in the 100m freestyle. Patching also advanced to the semi-finals of the 100m backstroke, where his time of 58.15 seconds placed him ninth overall.
Patching enjoyed his greatest individual success at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton. He won the 100m backstroke in a Games record of 57.90 seconds and secured silver in the 200m backstroke. He also collected silver in the 4x100m freestyle relay and bronze in the medley relay, completing the Games with four medals.
At Moscow 1980, Patching reached the semi-finals of the 100m backstroke after winning his heat in 58.30 seconds. He also swam the backstroke leg during the heats of the 4x100m medley relay, helping Australia qualify for the final. Australia went on to win the event in 3:45.70, earning Patching an Olympic gold medal and completing his second Games appearance.
