Twelve-year-old Jada Christiana Yankey proved to be the breakout star of the 2024 Africa Aquatics Zone 2 Juniors and Seniors Swimming Championships, showcasing exceptional talent and resilience as she helped Ghana achieve a remarkable medal haul.
Despite being the youngest competitor, Jada’s relentless spirit saw her dominate the junior competition, securing 13 medals across various events.
Jada, who is a boarding student at Millfield School in Somerset, UK, brought a wealth of training experience to the competition.
With access to world-class facilities, her hard work paid off as she competed in 15 events—more than any other athlete, junior or senior—during the 3-day tournament in Accra.
Ghana’s overall success was unprecedented, with both the junior and senior teams winning 28 medals each.
In her individual events, Jada earned gold in the 800m freestyle, silver in the 200m individual medley and 200m backstroke, and three bronze medals in the 200m freestyle, 400m freestyle, and 50m breaststroke.
Teaming up with her fellow swimmers, Jada further contributed to Ghana’s triumph by winning gold in three relay events, including the 4x200m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle, and 4x100m medley. Her exceptional performance was further highlighted by silver and bronze medals in mixed relay events.
Her elder sister, Rihanna Yankey, also played a pivotal role, winning 3 gold and 1 silver medal, including teaming up with Jada in senior relay events, adding more success to Ghana’s medal count.
Speaking after the competition, Jada expressed her pride in representing Ghana: “For me, it wasn’t just about the medals, but the desire to win for my country. I look forward to continuing to grow in the sport and representing Ghana whenever I can.”
Jada and Rihanna’s father, Charles Yankey, shared insights into their journey, explaining that both girls started swimming at just six months old.
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Besides swimming, Jada is a versatile athlete, participating in long-distance running, triathlons, and hockey, while Rihanna also enjoys athletics and netball.
Charles Yankey recalled a heartwarming moment after the competition, noting that Jada’s achievements were celebrated at her school in the UK.
“Her headmaster read out some of the Ghana press articles on her in front of the entire assembly. It was an emotional moment for everyone,” he said, underscoring the impact of Jada’s success both in Ghana and abroad.
Jada and Rihanna’s outstanding performances have not only elevated Ghana’s presence in international swimming but also positioned them as rising stars in the world of sports.
