Andrew Rock

Olympic gold medalist

What is Andrew Rock known for?

Andrew Rock, born on January 23, 1982, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, is an accomplished American sprinter who specialized in the 400-meter dash. Growing up in Stratford, Wisconsin, Rock was not initially a heavily recruited athlete despite his monumental achievement of being the first athlete in the 2000 Wisconsin State Championship's history to win four individual titles at the same championship.

Rock's talent truly blossomed during his time at University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where he became a nine-time National Champion and a 17-time All-American. After initially finishing as a runner-up seven times between the 2001 and 2002 seasons, Rock came into his own in 2003 and 2004, winning eight consecutive titles in the 400-meter dash and the 4x400-meter relay. He even set the fastest 400-meter time in Division III history with a time of 44.66 seconds.

In his professional career, Rock's remarkable journey continued as he represented the United States in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. Rock's performance in the 4x400m relay team during the qualification rounds ensured the team's place in the final, which they won, earning Rock a coveted Olympic gold medal.

Following the Olympics, at the 2005 World Championships in Helsinki, Rock further showcased his abilities by winning a silver medal in the individual 400m event and helping his relay team secure yet another gold medal. His personal best in the 400m event is 44.35 seconds, established during this championship.

After his stellar career as an athlete, Andrew Rock transitioned into coaching and, as of 2017, was the head coach of the track and field teams at Bethel University.