Road to Paris: Egyptian Swimmer Ali Khalafalla’s Journey through Oklahoma
In the quest for his third Olympics, Egyptian swimmer Ali Khalafalla found himself on a unique path through Oklahoma. The road to the Olympics often leads athletes from around the world through the American college system, with various colleges contributing to the pool of Olympic swimmers heading to Paris this summer. Over the next six months, we’ll delve into the stories of these athletes on their Road to Paris.
After the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Khalafalla was in search of a new training ground. He had previously trained at his alma mater, Indiana University, and later followed coach Coley Stickels to Alabama. However, seeking stability and a fresh start, Khalafalla reached out to his high school coach, Chris VanSlooten, who had recently moved to Oklahoma. VanSlooten introduced him to the Division II program at Oklahoma Christian in Edmund, coached by the experienced Josh Davis, an American Olympic gold medalist.
Ali Khalafalla’s Path to Success
Despite a decade-long journey that took him from Cairo to the United States, Khalafalla’s focus remained unwavering. He represented Egypt at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and Tokyo Olympics in 2021, showcasing his talent in the sprint events. Over the years, Khalafalla honed his skills, specializing in the 50 freestyle under the guidance of coaches like Noah Yanchulis, Trevor Loomis, and Patrick Waggoner. His dedication and hard work paid off, as he set a meet record and achieved an Olympic B cut at the recent TYR Pro Swim Series in Knoxville.
Aside from his swimming career, Khalafalla has embraced new challenges and experiences in Oklahoma. Engaged and pursuing a real estate license, he has diversified his interests beyond the pool. His engagement at Tulsa’s Philbrook Museum of Art and involvement in swim camps reflect his commitment to personal growth and community engagement. With a multifaceted approach to life, Khalafalla aims to create a balanced lifestyle that goes beyond swimming, acknowledging the importance of exploring other passions.
