Tendry Rakotobe sets new Madagascar swimming record
The young swimmer finished ninth overall in the 50m backstroke at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics.
Madagascar swimmer Tendry Rakotobe set a new national record in the 50m backstroke at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics. He finished fourth in his heat with a time of 27.35 seconds, placing him ninth overall and narrowly missing a spot in the final.
Rakotobe's performance surpassed his previous personal best of 27.7 seconds, established two years ago. His teammate Océane Rakotonanahary competed in the 50m breaststroke, finishing fourth in her heat in 34.65 seconds and eleventh overall.
Two other Malagasy athletes are still competing: Francia Nomenjanahary Randriatiana in beach wrestling on November 8 and Jauslin Anjara Laura in the 200m athletics sprint on November 10.
Why it mattersTendry Rakotobe's new national swimming record at the Youth Olympics showcases Malagasy athletic achievement abroad.