INTERNATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS: World Points – 854, Pre-1986 Points-0. Total Points: 854. Since 1972, he has competed in 5 age groups (60-64 thru 80-84). 23 FINA MASTERSWORLD RECORDS

He was born and raised in Germany and by the age of five or six, he had taught himself to swim in the local river. The kids in the neighborhood called him "Water Rat". At 14, his family had to move because of the war. In his new town of Pirmasens, he joined the local swim club and swam with the breaststrokers and competed in the 1942-43Youth Nationals in Breslau.

Surprisingly, even during his time as a prisoner of the war, Karl was allowed to swim every Sunday morning at a local Scottish Swim Club. After the war, he took part in small competitions because his job was more important; however, he continued to swim recreationally. In 1973, he was asked to compete in theMasters National Champions as part of a relay. His relay won the gold medal! From then on, he competed in all German National Championships.

Karl Hauter began attending World Championships in 1986 and has attended all Championships since then. He has competed in five age groups (60-64) through (80-84), has set 23 FINA MastersWorld Records and has 64 number 1 world rankings.Due to health reasons,Karl is no longer attendingWorld Championships, however, he continues to swim three times a week and swims all strokes. "Swimming is the best sport to maintain health", says 84 year old, Karl Hauter of Germany!