The Malagasy delegation will be represented by nineteen athletes across six disciplines at the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Dakar, taking place from October 31 to November 13.
Still a cadet, Jauslin Anjara Laura will defend the colors of the Great Island in the 200-meter event, with the primary goal of progressing through exposure to international competition. The selection of the Malagasy representative in athletics was determined by circumstances. The initially favored athlete joined the national rugby sevens team for the YOG, while a second candidate from Alaotra-Mangoro was injured during school sports competitions.
The Malagasy Athletics Federation then turned to Jauslin Anjara Laura, who lives in Switzerland and competes for Lausanne-Sports Athlétisme. Last August, she participated in the Madagascar All-Category Championships, which allowed her to test herself against the best national athletes. Her performance convinced federation officials to give her a chance in Dakar.
This selection opens the doors to a top-tier international competition for her. According to Norolalao Andriamahazo, president of the Malagasy Athletics Federation, medal chances remain limited. “Winning a medal in athletics at the Dakar YOG will not be easy for the Great Island’s representative. We chose to field her so she can gain experience and progress,” she stated.
Beyond the results, the YOG represent an important step in the development of young Malagasy athletes. For the 18 representatives competing in rugby, athletics, swimming, table tennis, wrestling, and judo, the challenge is to face high-level opponents, discover the demands of international sports, and gain maturity. This experience should also allow federations to evaluate the potential of their young talents and better prepare for their future.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-30 06:23:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/joj-de-dakar-athletisme-jauslin-anjara.html