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July 7 (Reuters) – Tokyo Olympic medallist Kayla Sanchez will not signify Canada in worldwide competitors and can search to compete for the Philippines, Swimming Canada stated on Thursday.
The 21-year-old gained silver within the 4×100 metres freestyle relay and bronze within the 4×100 metres medley relay on the Summer season Video games and picked up silver in each occasions on the world championships in Budapest this 12 months.
Born in Singapore to Filipino dad and mom, Sanchez lived in Canada from age two.
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“I’ve at all times been actually pleased with my Filipino heritage,” she stated in a Swimming Canada assertion.
“Apart from how a lot I’ve grown and the way good all the pieces has been in Canada, I wanted to make this actually troublesome resolution for myself and my household to take this chance to signify the Philippines.
“I wish to assist encourage individuals which can be like me to swim and get into the game.”
A number of high-profile athletes have determined to alter the flags below which they compete, together with American-born freestyle skiier Elieen Gu, who started representing China at age 15 and has since gained two Olympic gold medals.
“Our loss would be the Philippines’ acquire, however we assist her on this transition as it’s the route she needs to comply with for private and household causes,” stated Canadian excessive efficiency director and nationwide coach John Atkinson.
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Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York, enhancing by Ed Osmond
Our Requirements: The Thomson Reuters Belief Ideas.
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