After a pandemic-induced delay, the Olympic Games are set to return this summer, and Sierra Leone is ready to participate alongside 205 other nations. The Sierra Leone Swimming Federation has announced the names of the athletes who have qualified for the 2024 Olympic Games in France.

The federation confirmed that Joshua JJ Wyse and Olamiday Elizabeth Sam will represent Sierra Leone in the swimming category. The Games will commence in Paris on Friday, July 26th, 2024, with football (soccer) and Rugby Sevens leading the initial events. Over the subsequent 17 days, the world will witness the pinnacle of athletic competition, culminating in 13 gold medal events on Sunday, August 11th.

Joshua JJ Wyse has made history by becoming the first athlete from Sierra Leone to qualify for the Olympic Games in France. He secured his qualification during the World Aquatics Championships held in Fukuoka, Japan, in 2023. Wyse’s journey to the Olympics has been marked by significant achievements. He set a new national record in the 50-meter freestyle category during the Thailand Age Group Swimming Competition on December 21, 2023. His performance in this event earned him the national record holder title, with a time of 26.82 seconds, a significant improvement from his previous best of 27.17 seconds at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

This outstanding achievement also marked a new Personal Best for Wyse, breaking the previous national record of 26.90 seconds set by Osman Kamara in the 2016 Rio Olympics. Wyse’s determination and hard work have paid off, and his qualification is a testament to his dedication to the sport.

While some countries might send dozens or even hundreds of athletes, Sierra Leone, due to its size and resources, often relies on the Tripartite Commission for athlete quotas. This commission, composed of representatives from the International Olympic Committee, National Olympic Committees, and Summer Olympic Sports Federations, allocates these quotas to eligible National Olympic Committees, ensuring that countries with fewer resources can still participate in the Games.

The 2024 Paris Games will culminate in a traditional closing ceremony, officially bringing the event to a close in the French capital. Sierra Leone’s participation in the Olympics is a significant achievement, providing the country an opportunity to showcase its athletic talent on the world stage.

Sierra Leone’s representation by Joshua JJ Wyse and Olamiday Elizabeth Sam in the swimming events is a moment of pride for the nation. Their participation underscores the resilience and determination of Sierra Leonean athletes, who continue to strive for excellence despite challenges. The entire nation will be cheering them on as they compete against the best in the world.

The Olympic Games not only highlight the spirit of competition but also bring nations together, fostering unity and camaraderie. Sierra Leone’s athletes will be a part of this global celebration of sport, representing their country with honor and distinction. As the Games approach, the excitement and anticipation build, with the world eagerly awaiting the remarkable performances and inspiring stories that the Olympics always deliver.