Chinese-born Nigerian swimmer Adaku Nkem Nwandu has expressed his excitement about competing for Nigeria at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Nwandu, who was born to a Chinese mother and a Nigerian mother, started competing for Nigeria in 2022 after participating in the National Sports Festival held in Asaba.
She represented Bayelsa during the games and set a new national record of 9:28:30 in the 4×200m freestyle women’s swimming event.
At 17 years old, Nwandu will make her Olympic debut, competing in the women’s 50m freestyle on Saturday, August 3.
Speaking ahead of her first real action in Paris, the talented swimmer disclosed that she will be aiming a personal best record at the games.
“It feels so real, and I feel so excited. I have never expected this to happen in my swimming career, but I’m excited to be here among all these amazing athletes,” Nwandu said via Making of Champions.
“I definitely want to get a new personal best here. From my experience, I just try not to overthink. I just want to be able to focus and think more clearly; I’m just taking it as easy as possible,” she added.
Born in China 🇨🇳 , currently living in Singapore 🇸🇬 and representing Nigeria🇳🇬, Adaku Nkem Nwandu shares her journey to representing Naija!
— Making of Champions (@MakingOfChamps) July 31, 2024
"I started swimming when I was 8yrs old.... at a school competition, I didn't do so well. I asked my Dad if we could make a deal; that if… pic.twitter.com/iuthmuecCo
