Leo Freisinger

Leonhard Freisinger (February 7, 1916 – August 29, 1985) was an American speed skater who competed at the 1936 Winter Olympics. He won a bronze medal in the 500 m and placed fourth in the 1500 m event. He won the U.S. National Indoor title in 1937 and 1938 and the National and North American Outdoor title in 1940. In 1938 he set a world record over 500 m at a meet in Davos, Switzerland, but Hans Engnestangen beat this record a few minuted later. Freisinger was selected for the 1940 Olympics, but they were canceled due to World War II. Later he became a figure skater in professional ice shows, and coached the 1964 American Olympic speed skating team.