Iona Anderson
Iona Anderson (AU)
Biography
Iona Anderson is a rising star in the world of swimming hailing from Perth, Australia. With an impressive list of achievements under her belt, she cemented her place on the international stage at the 2024 World Swimming Championships in Doha. There, she clinched two silver medals in the 100m and 50m backstroke events, setting new personal bests and showcasing her incredible talent.
Originally a gymnast, Iona made the switch to swimming at the age of 13, quickly catching the eye of coaches with her potential. Her transition proved fruitful as she soon began training with the Breakers Swim Club, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for backstroke. Her hard work paid off when she broke multiple West Australian state records and won several gold medals in national competitions.
In 2023, Iona shone brightly at the World Junior Championships in Israel, winning gold in the 50m backstroke. She continued her upward trajectory in 2024, securing silver and bronze medals at the Australian Open Championships and making history at the Olympic trials in Brisbane by setting an Australian age record for 18-year-old girls in the 100m backstroke.
Despite her young age, Iona has demonstrated remarkable determination, skill, and dedication, making her a promising athlete to watch at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her journey from gymnastics to the swimming pool is a testament to her versatility and relentless pursuit of excellence.