DAKAR - Team South Africa enjoyed a successful day at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics on Monday, claiming two medals thanks to swimming sensation Chanel Veldsman and the national rugby sevens team.
Veldsman secured bronze in the women's 200m breaststroke on the second day of aquatics competition in the Senegalese capital.
For the young swimmer, the achievement marks a remarkable milestone. Just over 12 months ago, she was lining up for her first international swimming competition. Now, she has earned a place on the Youth Olympic podium.
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Even more impressive was the manner in which she secured her medal—Veldsman clocked a personal best of 2:30.87, taking an incredible four seconds off her previous best time.
She is still set to compete in the women's 100m and 50m breaststroke events.
Meanwhile, South Africa's rugby sevens team also delivered an impressive performance, taking home silver after narrowly losing to France in the final.