USA Swimming is partnering with releasing platform Tugg for the documentary “The Last Gold” about the U.S. women’s relay team who upset the East Germans at the 1976 Summer Olympics.
The screenings will take place July 11, less than a month before the Olympics begin in Brazil. Tugg said Wednesday there are currently screenings scheduled for 136 cities in 34 states.
The film, which will premiere at the LA Film Festival on June 6, centers on the women’s 4×100-meter freestyle relay team, composed of Kim Peyton, Wendy Boglioli, Shirley Babashoff and 15-year-old Jill Sterkel. After the U.S. women’s team had been outshone in nearly every event by their East German rivals, the quartet broke the East Germans’ world record in the event final.
Through Tugg, individuals and swim teams can register to host a screening or attend a scheduled screening of “The Last Gold” at a local venue.
“’The Last Gold’ is a way to honor the women of this 1976 team and serve as an inspiration,” said Chuck Wilegus, executive director of USA Swimming and an executive producer of the film. “Launching the film in partnership with Tugg ensures the largest national reach for the film, and also a way to involve the swimming community and teams to bring it to their area.”
The film is directed by 15-time Emmy winner Brian T. Brown and narrated by Julianna Margulies.
Here is the trailer:
