Eva Okaro made headlines in June by setting records in the pool while competing in the second leg of the 4×100-meter freestyle relay at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Her outstanding performance not only demonstrated her skill and determination but also added to the rich history of British swimming.
The relay team, consisting of Anna Hopkin, Lucy Hope, Freya Anderson, and Okaro, showcased their abilities in a fiercely competitive field, ultimately finishing 7th in the final.
Despite the result, Okaro’s individual performance stood out as she set a remarkable split time of 53.75 seconds for the 100 metres.
At just 17 years old, Okaro became the youngest member of Team GB’s swimming squad in Paris.
Her rise to prominence in the sport has been rapid, but it’s also the result of years of hard work and dedication.
She first started swimming at an early age, and by 16, she was already making waves at Sevenoaks Swimming Club, competing alongside her sister Izabella.
Now representing Repton School, Eva Okaro’s trajectory is one of continued growth and achievement.
“She’s a star,” said Paddy Ham, her former coach at Sevenoaks Swimming Club. “She’s come so far for her age, and she’s really someone to look up to.”
Ham’s admiration for Okaro is shared by many in the British swimming community, who see her as an inspiring role model for young athletes, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Okaro’s accomplishments are especially significant as she became the first Black woman to swim for Team GB since Alice Dearing, who competed in the open water event at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Okaro’s representation on the world stage is a powerful symbol of diversity and progress within the sport.
Reflecting on her Olympic debut, Okaro said: “I was nervous, but I feel so proud representing my country.”
Her Olympic experience in Paris is just the beginning. Okaro has a clear vision for the future, viewing these Games as one of many milestones in her career.
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