Hannah Burkhill selected to Australian Olympic Team for Tokyo 2020

WAIS artistic swimmer Hannah Burkhill has been selected to the Australian Olympic Team for Tokyo 2020 in artistic swimming.

Initially selected as a reserve for Tokyo, Burkhill’s selection comes after teammate and friend Rose Stackpole announced her retirement from the sport last month.

Her debut selection comes after a dream nearly a decade ago to compete at the Olympic Games. Burkhill is no stranger to competition on the world stage having been part of the Australian Team that qualified for the Olympic Games at the 2019 World Championships in Gwangju, South Korea.

“This is a dream come true, I’ve wanted this for so long,” Burkhill said. “In 2012 I had just started competing and I was so excited to see the Olympic Team in person in their lead-up and watching them compete at the London Olympics. I still can’t believe I’ll be at my own Games next year.

“It’s been such a crazy year and this moment is so happy but also bittersweet. After just missing out on the initial selection in February, I’m so glad to have another opportunity, but sad that Rose won’t be with the team next year.

“At Tokyo I just want to put together a swim that our community, supporters and country can be proud of.”

The eight-member team includes five WA athletes, with Burkhill joining Emily Rogers, Amie Thompson, Hannah Cross and Jane Fruzynski.

25-year-old Stackpole said the timing was right for her to move on and was thrilled for Hannah’s announcement for Tokyo.

“My advice for Hannah is to enjoy every moment of your Tokyo experience,” said Stackpole.

“Whether it’s walking into the Village, the Opening Ceremony, your first day of competition – there are so many overwhelming positive experiences, try to take in as much as possible.”