Nataraj and Desinghu selected to represent India at the Olympics 2024
The Swimming Federation of India (SFI) announced on Wednesday that swimmers Srihari Nataraj and Dhinidhi Desinghu had been chosen to represent India in the 2015 Paris Olympics under the Universality Quota.
The SFI had earlier said that they were awaiting World Aquatics' permission on the choice.
Although Dhinidhi would be participating in his first Olympics, Srihari was able to qualify for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo after FINA validated his 'A' standard qualification time in the men's 100-meter backstroke.
With 849 points, Srihari led the global Aquatics points chart in the men's division. After his most recent try at qualification in Canada, Aryan Nehra came very close to securing the universality berth, trailing Srihari by only two points.
On the opposite side, Dhinidhi, 14, was dominating the women's standings with 749 points.
June 23 was the deadline for qualifying for the Olympics.
Since no Indian swimmer was able to qualify directly, SFI said that there were 'universality places' available for both sexes. Dhinidhi will compete in the women's 200-meter freestyle event, while Srihari will compete in the men's 100-meter backstroke.
Sajan Prakash, a seasoned swimmer from India and two-time Olympian, revealed on Instagram on Tuesday that he was not selected for the Olympics in Paris.
'My attempt to qualify for my third Olympics has come to an end. For over 25 years, I have dedicated myself entirely to this sport, which holds a special place in my heart. Competing in the last two Olympic Games and maintaining consistent performance in such a demanding arena has been profoundly challenging, both physically and mentally. The obstacles off the field often proved to be even tougher,' the 30-year-old stated.
'My attempt to qualify for my third Olympics has come to an end. For over 25 years, I have dedicated myself entirely to this sport, which holds a special place in my heart. Competing in the last two Olympic Games and maintaining consistent performance in such a demanding arena has been profoundly challenging, both physically and mentally. The obstacles off the field often proved to be even tougher,' the thirty-year-old said.
Also Read: Essential Travel Tips for Indian Visitors to the Olympics 2024
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