For most athletes, competing at the Commonwealth Games is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. For Team Surrey swimmer Delphine Riley, the experience has been made even more memorable by sharing it with her younger sister, Elodie, as the pair represent Guernsey on the international stage.
The sisters found themselves racing side-by-side in the heats of the women's 200m freestyle at Glasgow's Tollcross Swimming Centre, adding a unique family dynamic to one of the biggest competitions of their careers. Delphine, 19, narrowly edged out 17-year-old Elodie, touching the wall in 2:11.01, just 0.67 seconds ahead of her sister. The pair finished 28th and 30th respectively in a field of 36 swimmers.
While there may be friendly sibling rivalry in the pool, both swimmers have spoken about the benefits of having a familiar face alongside them at such a major event. Competing at their first Commonwealth Games, the sisters have been able to support one another through the excitement and challenges that come with racing on the international stage.
For Delphine, who is a member of Team Surrey's swimming programme, the opportunity to compete at the Games has been an unforgettable experience. "I've never been to a meet this big before," Delphine said after her race. "This is an incredible atmosphere and there are such big names racing. It's amazing to watch and be on poolside alongside them." The Riley sisters have already competed together in the 400m freestyle and were also due to line up alongside each other in the 800m freestyle, creating a remarkable family story for Guernsey's swimming team.
Delphine's Commonwealth Games appearance comes after earning selection for Guernsey in the women's 200m freestyle, 400m freestyle and 800m freestyle, representing another significant milestone in her swimming career. Her performances on the international stage are a reflection of the dedication and commitment she has shown throughout her development as both a student and athlete.
Everyone at Team Surrey is incredibly proud of Delphine's achievements and the way she has embraced the Commonwealth Games experience. Competing against the best swimmers from across the Commonwealth is a tremendous accomplishment in itself, and sharing those memories with her sister makes the occasion even more special.