Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Sierra Leone has achieved a historic milestone in aquatic sports as Hazel Alamy becomes the first Sierra Leonean nominated for the prestigious World Aquatics Athletes’ Committee.
Her nomination places Sierra Leone on the global stage of aquatic sports governance, marking a significant breakthrough not only for the country but also for the African aquatic community. Alamy’s name appears on the final list of candidates eligible for election to the committee—an achievement shared by only one other African nominee out of over 50 countries that submitted applications.
The election of new members to the World Aquatics Athletes’ Committee will take place from July 1 to 28 during the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where athletes from across the globe will vote for their representatives.
Hazel Alamy has been nominated in the women’s swimming category, alongside Siwakhile Dlamini of Eswatini. Dlamini made headlines recently at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships in Budapest, Hungary, by setting a new national record in the Women’s 100m freestyle, breaking a 26-year-old benchmark. Her performance comes just weeks after beginning a year-long training programme at Bond University in Australia, under a World Aquatics scholarship.
Speaking on the significance of Alamy’s nomination, Mohamed Turay, President of the Sierra Leone Aquatic Sports Association, said it is a moment of immense pride for the country.
“This nomination is a huge leap forward for aquatic sports in Sierra Leone,” Turay stated. “It reflects our commitment to elevating our athletes and promoting their participation in global decision-making bodies.”
The nomination underscores Sierra Leone’s growing presence in international sports and serves as an inspiration for young athletes nationwide. BT/21/5/2025
