Elinah Phillip, 16, will be the first swimmer from the Virgin Islands to attend an Olympic Games. Photo: Provided

The British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC), who in conjunction with the British Virgin Islands Swimming Federation, confirmed Phillip’s Olympic berth through a Universality Invitation.

Phillip, who is just 16 years of age, will also be the first swimmer to attend an Olympic Games from the Virgin Islands.

The National Record holder, who lives and trains in England, is currently preparing for the British Summer National Championships which will serve as her tune up meet prior to the Rio edition of the games. She has been swimming competitively since the age of 10 and set her eyes on Rio at just 12 years old back in 2012.

In 2014 she competed at the Commonwealth Games.

Training going well

Phillip’s continued development and achievement were made possible by the unwavering support of her family, friends and coaches who have worked with her to achieve her goals.

"My training is going well, I am excited and anxious at the same time but I have confidence in my training and the work I have put in. I've made a lot of friends my age at other international competitions so seeing them will take some of the pressure off. I would like to thank the BVI Olympic Committee, the BVI Swimming Federation, the Bishop’s Stortford Swimming Club and my school the Bishop’s Stortford College where I train as a member of the Elite Swimming programme," Phillip said.

The BVI Swimming Federation and the Makos Swim Club congratulate Elinah on her selection and wish her a very successful and memorable first of many Olympic Games.

The first round for Phillip will take place on August 12, 2016 with the semi finals taking place later that day. The final for the 50m Freestyle takes place on August 13, 2016.