If the true measure of athletic greatness was reflected in exemplary skill and longevity, then Bob Hamerton lived the life of a true champion.

Hamerton was the predominant swimmer in Manitoba as he held all senior freestyle titles between the years of 1932 and 1935. He became the first male swimmer from Manitoba named to an Olympic swim team after establishing a national record in the 200 metre Freestyle event and represented Canada at the Berlin Olympiad of 1936. Hamerton placed fourth in the heats for both 100 and 400 metre Freestyle events and helped Canada attain a seventh place finish in the relay competition.

Although Hamerton continued as a competitive swimmer, he coached many younger athletes at the Saskatoon Speed Swimming Club as well as the Cardinal and St. James Masters Swim Clubs in Winnipeg. In his later years, (1978-88) Hamerton was a prolific competitor for the St. James Masters Swim Club and established Canadian records in five masters swimming events: short course records included 65-69 age class freestyle 50m (:32.00), 70-74 age class freestyle 50m (:32.89) and 800m (13:51.3). Long course records included 50m freestyle (:33.0) and 50m breaststroke (:45.5). He also held a World Record in master swimming in the 800m freestyle (13:51.5).

Hamerton has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to both the swimming and broader community. He has received community service awards from the City of Winnipeg and Province of Manitoba, as well as an honourary life membership to the St. James Masters Swim Club in 1986. After an illustrious swimming career that spanned six decades, Bob Hamerton passed away in 1990.