Fil-Canadian swimmer Kayla Sanchez cleared to swim for PH in Paris Olympics

It’s a go for Filipino-Canadian swimmer Kayla Sanchez to swim for PH in Paris Olympics | Photo from kaylasanchez_/Instagram

From star pole vaulter EJ Obiena and gymnast prodigy Carlos Yulo to two-time Olympic medalist Kayla Sanchez, the Philippines has another shot at a podium finish in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

This optimism follows the official approval by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for Fil-Canadian swimmer Sanchez to represent the country.

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Making waves with her decision to switch federations from Canada to the Philippines in 2022, Sanchez was granted by the sports committee a waiver, exempting her from the customary three-year residency rule for athletes switching nationalities.

While the swimmer is now eligible to compete under the country’s flag in Paris, she still faces the challenge of meeting the qualification standards to make a splash in the event. This could be through individual qualification, relay qualification, or can be nominated by the national swimming federation through the universality rule. 

At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Sanchez showcased her prowess by clinching a silver medal in the 4x100m freestyle relay and a bronze in the 4x100m medley relay, representing Canada. 

However, the Singapore-born Filipina’s allegiance took a turn as she proudly sported the national tricolors at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, a few months ago.

The IOC, in its letter, extended copies to the World Aquatics and the Canadian Olympic Committee, acknowledging the significant transition of one of Canada’s top swimmers to the Philippine delegation.