Swimmer Jasmine Alkhaldi out of Olympic contention

MANILA, Philippines — The other half of the Philippines’ swimming crew has also been eliminated from the Rio Olympics, Wednesday night.

Twenty-three-year-old Jasmine Alkhaldi finished only 3rd in Heat 2 of the 100m freestyle competition held at the Olympic Aquatics Stadium in Rio De Janeiro in Brazil.

Alkhaldi, already in her second straight Olympiad, clocked 56.30, placing her 33rd overall in a field of 46 competitors. Only the top 16 swimmers advanced to the next round.

Last Sunday night, compatriot Jessie Lacuna crashed out Rio with a dismal showing also in the Heat 2 of the men’s 400m freestyle.

As of writing, only Hidilyn Diaz have secured a medal for the Philippines. Five athletes remain in the games that ends in August 21. — Denison Rey A. Dalupang