Howard to represent Zambia in Rio Olympics

PHOENIX – Jade Howard, a rising junior on the Grand Canyon women's swimming and diving team, has been officially selected by the Zambian Swimming Union to represent Zambia at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

"Jade is the first of what we hope will be two or three of our swimmers selected to represent their countries in the Rio Olympics," said head coach Steve Schaffer. "Youssef and Mazen El Kamash also have a chance to make Egypt's olympic team."

While many talented athletes only dream of competing in the Olympic Games, Howard can now mark this achievement off her bucket list for the second time. She first made Zambian history in the 2012 Olympics in London, placing 39th overall in the heats of the women's 100 meter freestyle. Her time of 59.35 set a personal and Zambian record.

Howard will, once again, swim the 100-meter freestyle in the upcoming 2016 Rio Olympics.

"The Olympics is the biggest stage any swimmer can compete at so, of course, this is a little daunting," said Howard. "Mainly I just feel so honored to represent this nation and so grateful for this incredible opportunity. I have been working extremely hard this past year and really increased my focus on training in the past few months. I think it's important to not put too much pressure on myself and just go in with a positive attitude and focus on my own race."

"We are excited for what we hope will become a tradition of Grand Canyon swimmers and divers who compete in the Olympics," added Schaffer. "We already have a tradition of World Championship competitors, but getting our swimmers to the Olympic Games is really something special."

The Rio Olympics will be held August 5 to August 21, 2016. More information on the upcoming Games can be found here.

Grand Canyon University Athletics

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