Two-time Tokyo Games medalist in swimming, 21-year-old Kayla Sanchez, who has represented Canada until now, has decided to change her national colors and will perform for the Philippines. Her parents, who came to Canada when she was two years old, are from that country.
The Canadian Swimming Federation announced the 21-year-old’s decision.
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Sanchez won a silver medal with Canada at the Tokyo Olympics in the 4x100m freestyle relay and a bronze medal in the 4x100m medley relay. She has also been on the podium several times in the world championships – always in the relay.
– I have always been proud of my Filipino roots. No matter how many good things I received from Canada, I felt I had to make this difficult decision for myself and my family. I want to be an inspiration to others (in the Philippines – PAP), encourage them to practice swimming and sports in general – said Sanchez, born in Singapore.
Canada’s national swimming coach John Atkinson says Sanchez’s departure is a big loss for the national team. He added that the federation, however, supported his decision taken with the heart and not by calculation.
CM, PAP
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