Joaquim Granger, the oldest Portuguese Olympian and a pioneer of national artistic gymnastics, died on Friday at the age of 97, the Olympic Committee of Portugal (COP) announced today. In a statement, the COP expressed its deep regret over the passing of Granger, who was one of the five athletes to represent Portugal in the sport's debut at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games. The committee did not disclose the date or cause of death. A major figure in the history of Portuguese Olympism, Granger leaves behind a legacy of dedication to sport, training, and education, having been recognised by the Faculty of Human Kinetics as a distinguished student, teacher, and gymnastics coach.