Ali Khalafalla and Farida Osman Set New Records at the African Games
Excitement was at its peak on the final day of the African Games in Ghana as Egyptian swimmers Farida Osman and Ali Khalafalla made waves by setting new meet records in the 50 freestyle events. Osman, who clinched her eighth medal and fourth gold, completed the 50 freestyle in a remarkable time of 24.72 seconds, just a mere tenth off her national record set back in 2017. This performance also secured her an Olympic B cut for the upcoming Paris Games.
Khalafalla, aiming for his third Olympics, also showcased his prowess by clocking in at 22.02 seconds in the 50 freestyle, coming within a fraction of his national record. His impressive timing also earned him an Olympic B cut, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming qualification events. The African Games in Accra saw a total of seven meet records being shattered, with three Olympic B cuts achieved, including South Africa’s Clayton Jimmie, who triumphed in the 100 freestyle with a time of 46.29.
Exciting Standings of the African Games Medal Count
The final medal standings of the African Games showcased South Africa as the leading nation with a total of 17 gold medals and 46 overall medals, narrowly edging out Egypt by a single gold and 11 total medals. Algeria secured the second position with seven gold medals and 23 total medals, making them the only other country with multiple gold medals and a double-digit overall medal count.
Among all the female athletes, Farida Osman emerged as a standout performer, clinching a total of eight medals, including four golds. Her exceptional skills were on full display as she swept victories in the 50 fly and 100 fly events, and also played a crucial role in Egypt’s gold-winning performance in the women’s 400 free relay. The star athlete also contributed to her team’s success in securing silver in the mixed medley relay, mixed 400 free relay, and the women’s 400 medley relay.
Outstanding Performances and Records at the African Games
The African Games witnessed several outstanding performances and record-breaking achievements, with swimmers from various nations showcasing their talent and skill on the grand stage. Notable among them was the exceptional display by Marwan ElKamash from Egypt, who claimed gold medals in the four freestyle events ranging from 200 to 1,500. Additionally, Abdalla Nasr’s stellar performance, including winning gold in the 200 fly and 100 fly events, added to Egypt’s dominance in the men’s category.
Algeria’s Jaouad Syoud also made a significant impact by clinching a total of nine medals, sweeping victories in both individual medleys along with the 50 breast and 200 breast events. Syoud’s impressive performance, coupled with multiple relay bronze medals, solidified his position as one of the standout athletes of the tournament.
