Swimming’s international federation has given the green light to Olympic medalist Kayla Sanchez’s transfer to become a Filipino athlete. The World Aquatics has approved Sanchez’s request to change her nationality from Canada to the Philippines, effective Thursday, July 6. In a letter dated Tuesday, July 4, and transmitted to the Philippine Olympic Committee, World Aquatics Legal Counsel Loic Loutan confirmed the change, stating that Sanchez is now entitled to represent the Philippines in international competitions from July 6, 2023, onwards.
The Philippine Olympic Committee, headed by President Abraham Bambol Tolentino, had actively pursued Sanchez’s change of nationality for the past year, making sure she completed the necessary residency requirement. Tolentino expressed his delight at the approval, stating, Finally the good news. The country now has a very strong anchor in its national swimming team.
Sanchez, who was part of Canada’s silver medal-winning 4×100 meters freestyle relay team at the Tokyo Olympics, will officially start swimming for the Philippines in the Hangzhou 19th Asian Games scheduled from September 23 to October 8. However, she will not be participating in the ongoing world aquatics championships in Fukuoka, Japan, as advised by her coach.
Expressing her gratitude to Tolentino for his efforts, Sanchez stated, Thank you so much for helping me get the approval from World Aquatics.
Sanchez boasts an impressive swimming record, including three gold medals at the world championships, while representing Canada. Her transfer to the Philippines is expected to bolster the national swimming team, adding a strong contender for future competitions.
With her eligibility to compete for the Philippines secured, Sanchez’s presence in the Hangzhou 19th Asian Games is eagerly anticipated. The competition will provide her with an opportunity to further showcase her skills on an international platform.
The approval from World Aquatics marks a significant milestone for Sanchez and heralds a new chapter in her swimming career. As she embarks on her journey as a Filipino athlete, all eyes will be on her future achievements and the impact she will make in the swimming arena.
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