My mother was crying, says Dubai swimmer who became African champion

Dubai swimmer Jasmine Eissa

Jasmine Eissa: From Dubai Pool to African Champion

Jasmine Eissa, a 17-year-old student at GEMS Wellington Academy, achieved remarkable success by clinching the 200m butterfly gold at the African Junior Swimming Championships. Born in Venice, she has aspirations to represent Egypt and Italy in national championships, leveraging her mixed heritage. Her journey, marked by discipline, hard work, and family support, reflects her determination to pursue her Olympic dreams.

Jasmine's Triumph in Mauritius

Jasmine's victory in Mauritius at the African Junior Swimming Championships left her in awe. Despite entering the event with no expectations, she emerged victorious, winning gold in the 200m butterfly and silver in the 400m butterfly. Her achievements brought tears of joy to her parents, reflecting the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.

Family Tradition and Mixed Heritage

Swimming runs in Jasmine's family, with both her and her sister, Sara Eissa, actively participating in competitions. Jasmine's mixed heritage, with an Egyptian father and Italian mother, allows her eligibility to compete in national championships in both countries. This unique advantage underscores her diverse background and global appeal as a competitive swimmer.

Training and Support System in Dubai

Jasmine credits Dubai's world-class facilities and coaching staff for her success. Training under esteemed coaches Stuart Sant and Dejan Pejinovic, coupled with the exceptional facilities at her school, GEMS Wellington Academy, has provided her with the necessary infrastructure to excel. Jasmine's disciplined routine, comprising rigorous training sessions and a balanced diet, reflects her commitment to achieving her goals.

Transition to Butterfly Stroke

Following a challenging year during the pandemic, Jasmine transitioned from breaststroke to butterfly, a decision that proved transformative for her career. Her remarkable performance in butterfly events, including a notable victory in the UAE, propelled her towards becoming an African champion. Jasmine's adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity highlight her determination to succeed in the competitive swimming arena.

Aspirations and Dreams

While Jasmine's immediate focus is on qualifying for the Junior World Championships, her ultimate goal remains the Olympics. Inspired by legendary swimmers like Katinka Hosszu, Jasmine aspires to emulate their success on the world stage. However, she acknowledges her parents as her primary source of inspiration, recognizing their unwavering support throughout her journey.

Looking Ahead

Jasmine's journey from a Dubai pool to an African champion epitomizes the spirit of perseverance and dedication. With her eyes set on the Junior World Championships and the Olympics, she continues to push the boundaries of her potential. Jasmine's story serves as a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and familial support in achieving one's dreams in the realm of competitive sports.