Team Fiji swimmer David Tolu Young has made a remarkable breakthrough setting a new national record in the men’s 50-meter freestyle event at the 2024 Paris Olympics in France yesterday.
At 19 years old, Young has already set ambitious goals for himself, aiming to compete for medals at the next Olympics.
Hailing from Savusavu, Young achieved a significant milestone by winning his heat at the Paris Olympics with an impressive time of 22.71 seconds, surpassing his previous record of 22.87 seconds set at the 2023 World Aquatic Championships in Japan.
Despite finishing 40th out of 73 swimmers, Young is proud of his performance and the personal best time he achieved.
He says the atmosphere at the Paris Olympics 2024 is a lot more intense and louder as they are surrounded by so many elite athletes.
“It felt really nice and cool to finish first and get a national record, I was really happy with that definitely some things I could have done better in the race but I’m happy with the results overall,” he said after the race.
Young is eager to begin preparations for the next Olympics, humbled and honored to represent Fiji on the world stage.
He is determined to continue his pursuit of excellence and hopes to compete for medals at the next Olympic Games.
Meanwhile, fellow Team Fiji swimmer Anahira McCutcheon is set to showcase her talents in the women’s 50m freestyle event tomorrow.
