Belgium at the 1900 Summer Olympics
Belgium competed at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. It was the first appearance of the European nation. Belgium was represented in France by 78 athletes, all of them male, who competed in 11 disciplines. They comprised 95 entries in 28 events. Medalists. Additionally Belgian athletes won bronze medal as a part of football Mixed Team Université libre de Bruxelles. Results by event. Aquatics. Swimming. A man with the surname Hermand was Belgium's first Olympic swimmer. He competed in the 4000 metre freestyle but did not finish his first round heat. Water  polo. Brussels Swimming and Water Polo Club represented Belgium in this event. Archery. Belgium took three of seven gold medals, three of eight silver medals, and one of five bronze medals in the seven archery events that were Olympic. France and the Netherlands were the only other nations that competed, with France taking the remaining thirteen medals. Many of the French, Dutch, and Belgian competitors are unknown as their names were not recorded. 4 of the 18 Belgian archers are known by name, 14 are not. The 18 archers had 36 entries over all 7 events. Cycling. Belgium's first  cycling appearance was at the second Olympic cycling competition, 1900. One cyclist from Belgium competed in one event, winning no medals. Only his surname is known. Equestrian. Belgium competed in the inaugural Olympic equestrian events, taking gold medals in 3 of 5 events. The names of 11 Belgian equestrians are unknown. Fencing. Belgium competed in fencing at the nation's debut. The nation sent five fencers. Football. Université de Bruxelles represented Belgium in the football competition. The club squad lost its only match, to Club Française, to take third in the three-team competition. Université de Bruxelles Gymnastics. Belgium's  inaugural Olympic appearance included competing in the gymnastics portion of the program. Rowing. Belgium, through the Royal Club Nautique de Gand, sent coxed pairs and coxed eights boats to the first Olympic rowing competition. Shooting. Belgium's first Olympic appearance included competing in the shooting events. Belgian shooters competed in the military pistol and military rifle sets of events.