Kay Schimpf, 86, was born at the University Hospital, in Philadelphia, PA, and grew up in the city. Although her father didn’t encourage Schimpf in her schooling, she went to night school to pursue high school and college courses. She didn’t get a degree from college, but became very skilled in her business classes. During WWII, she provided valuable help with the Army Ordinance. Her early swimming experience was with the Philly Rec Dept, three days a week. Later, she received a scholarship from the Turverein for swimming and gymnastics. One summer, she utilized these skills and taught underprivileged children at a nearby summer camp. In 1936, she swam in a sectional meet to qualify for the Olympics, but didn’t make the cut. For 39 years, Schimpf worked for Kemper Insurance, in Philadelphia. She was one of the first women promoted to the Claims Adjustment Dept. With this proficiency, she trained other staff members to become claims adjusters. Schimpf’s sister died very suddenly, at the age of 36. Her family then consisted of three young nieces and nephews. She is very proud of their achievements, as all received college degrees and have professional careers. At 59, she retired and moved to Clearwater, FL. She met Coach Joe Biondi and swam for the local Y. Later, she joined St Pete Masters. Her outstanding swimming accomplishment was her USMS All Star Award, as a 75 year old. Schimpf’s greatest non-swimming accomplishment is her Gold Life Masters Bridge Award. She regularly plays bridge, often beating the “youngsters.” She joined the Mavericks in 2000, has swum on two World and seven National record relays and regularly achieves USMS All American and Top Ten rankings. She lives in Clearwater, FL, with her mischievous kitten.

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