Melanie Valerio grew up in Cleveland, OH where she became the fastest 100 freestyler out of high school. Accolades include 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist, first female swimmer sponsored by NIKE, first ever TIMEX Fitness Director, and first Ironman athlete sponsored by a rock band-Cheap Trick.
Post-swimming, Melanie became a member of the TIMEX Multi-Sport team as an Ironman competitor. She holds a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Virginia and enjoys balancing life as an athlete, full time professional and 40-year-old female.
Sponsored Amateur Ironman Competitor
- TIMEX Multi-Sport Team Member.
- Ironman top 20 age-group finisher.
- 2007 TIMEX Fitness Director representing TIMEX in various media forums.
- Secured the first ever tri-bike sponsorship by a rock band: CHEAP TRICK.
- Personally designed and created all graphics for the custom made bike.
National Team Member
- 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist.
- 1993, 1995 & 1997 Pan Pacific Championship Gold Medalist.
- 1998 World Championship Gold Medalist.
- Represented NIKE as a spokesperson and model.
University of Virginia Varsity Swim Team
- Earned a full scholarship.
- Team captain: 1990-91.
- Nine time NCAA Division I All-American.
- ACC swimmer of the year: 1990.
- 1989 and 1990 University of Virginia MVP.
- First female Olympic Gold Medalist at the University of Virginia.
United States Swimming
- Participated in competitive swimming from ages 5 to 31.
- Numerous U.S. National Championship finalist.
- Fastest female 100 freestyler coming out of high school: 1987.