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Portrait of Mary Al-Atrash

Mary Al-Atrash

Inspiring swimmer, overcame barriers to compete at the Olympics.

Born
1994
Born in
Beit Sahour, West Bank, Palestine
Path
Sports
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Why Mary is here

Participation in the 2016 Summer Olympics. Symbol of Palestinian resilience in sports. Overcoming significant training challenges.

Their story

Mary Al-Atrash is a Palestinian swimmer who became a symbol of determination and resilience by participating in the 2016 Rio Olympics despite facing significant obstacles, including limited training facilities. Her journey to the Olympics has inspired many and highlighted the challenges faced by athletes in conflict zones.

In pictures

Milestones

The moments that shaped Mary’s path.

  1. 1994

    Born in Beit Sahour, West Bank (1994).

  2. Began swimming career, overcoming the lack of proper training facilities.

  3. 2016

    Became part of Palestine’s largest delegation in the Olympic Games (2016).

  4. Competed in the women's 50 meter freestyle event at the Rio Olympics.

  5. Was the Palestinian flag bearer in the closing ceremony of the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Competed in the 50 meters freestyle at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

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  2. Achieved a personal best time of 28.76 seconds in the 50m freestyle.

  3. Became a role model for aspiring athletes in Palestine.

  4. Represented Palestinian athletes on an international stage.

  5. Brought attention to the challenges faced by athletes in conflict areas.

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Mary in interviews, talks and coverage.

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