University of Westminster

08/02/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/02/2024 05:46

Westminster alumnus and Olympian waves flag for Jamaica at Olympic Games opening ceremony

Law LLB Honours alumnus Josh Kirlew walked out with pride at the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony as Jamaica's flag bearer and contender in the Men's 100m Butterfly event.

Josh Kirlew is making his debut at the Olympic Games competing in the Men's 100m Butterfly. He is currently ranked in the top 50 swimmers in the world and will be facing the world's best athletes.

Kirlew started swimming when he was four, finding his love for the sport as part of Enfield Swim Squad in North London. From that moment he has trained tirelessly alongside studying and working. In February 2024 he first represented Jamaica in the 2024 World Championships in Doha, Qatar, and is now ready to take on his next challenge at the Paris Olympics.

About becoming an Olympian Kirlew said: "Well, qualifying as an Olympian is an achievement in itself, and I've been praying for it for so long that when I found out I made it, I was over the moon, and still am. And after being announced as the flag bearer for the opening ceremony, I feel so proud and humbled to be given this great honour."

He added: "There's so much to do, so much to look forward to. But all in all, I'm looking forward to my race the most out of everything, as I have the honour of representing Jamaica in my passion, and hopefully inspiring the next generation of Jamaican swimmers too."

Professor Luke Mason, Head of Westminster Law School, said: "We are delighted to witness Josh's success. Westminster Law School is proud to be home to a brilliantly diverse community of people who excel at so many things. The core of our unique ethos is to help all our students and colleagues bring their whole selves to the law and in turn achieve things in all walks of life."

Find out more about studying Law at the University of Westminster and to explore the opportunities that are available as part of the University's Elite Athlete Programme.