Team Tonga’s Uhi Reflects on Olympic Debut in Men's 100m Backstroke

Elizabeth Osifelo/PACNEWS

Based in Melbourne, Australia, Alan Uhi represented Team Tonga in his first Olympics.

Although he did not achieve his anticipated personal best time, Alan says he will grow from this experience.

Alan grew up in Tonga before moving to Australia in 2020.

He is enjoying his time in Paris, embracing the Paris 2024 Olympics’ experience.

Competing in the Paris La Defense Arena, in front of a such a big audience for first time was an unforgettable experience for him.

He clocked a time of 1 minute and 60 seconds, falling short of his personal best by a few seconds.

Coming straight out of the pool after his heat, Uhi said, "It's good to come to the Olympics at a very early age; I will improve next time."

He also shared his experience of moving from Tonga to Australia, highlighting the transition from swimming in the ocean to swimming in a pool, which was a huge difference during training and something he had to get used to.

Alan now has his eyes now set on the World Championships at the end of the year.

‍

‍