Banned swimmer's daughters to realise family's Commonwealth Games dream
Summary
Annette Cowley Nel was banned from the 1986 Commonwealth Games due to political issues linked to apartheid in South Africa. Forty years later, her twin daughters, Georgia and Olivia Nel, will both compete as swimmers for South Africa at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.Key Facts
- Annette Cowley Nel was set to compete for England in swimming at the 1986 Commonwealth Games but was banned on the eve of her race.
- The 1986 Games were boycotted by 32 nations opposing UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s refusal to sanction apartheid South Africa.
- Cowley Nel and another South African athlete, Zola Budd, were banned due to residency rules amidst political tensions.
- At age 19, Cowley Nel had dual British and South African ties and was a favorite to win the 100m freestyle.
- After her ban, Cowley watched her event from the stands but did not compete again internationally.
- Cowley Nel describes apartheid as a terrible time and regrets that athletes were punished regardless of personal views.
- Her twin daughters, Georgia and Olivia Nel, have both been selected to represent South Africa in swimming at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
- The 2026 Games in Glasgow mark a full circle moment for the family, as Annette will watch her daughters compete.
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