?It?s a Privilege, Not a Right?: Youngest Tokyo Olympics Swimming Champion, Plans Ahead to Keep Wearing Her ‘Crown’

Before the Tokyo Olympics 2020, no Alaskan had ever qualified for the Olympics. In fact, only 12 Alaskan swimmers in history have qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials. However, all that changed at the Tokyo Olympics, when Lydia Jacoby became the first Alaskan to qualify for the Olympic Games. Following this, John Heaphy and Lydia Jacoby were the only 2 Alaskans who had qualified for the 2020 Olympic Trials. Interestingly, Jacoby was the sole female qualifier from the state.

She won her first Olympic gold medal at 17 years during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her impressive time of 1:04:95 in the 100-meter-breaststroke was the fastest ever recorded for a female American swimmer in the 17-18 age group. This year she once again showcased her prowess in the pool, when she became the NCAA Division I champion in the women’s 100 meters breaststroke. Interestingly, in order to discuss various nooks and crannies of her vocation, Lydia Jacoby made a special appearance on the Olympic podcast.

Lydia Jacoby on her bobblehead and her swimming future

The official account of the Olympics also shared a snippet of the podcast on their Instagram story. While on the podcast, Jacoby talked about her adorable bobblehead that captures her triumphant Olympic moment. The funny-lookalike figurine is based on a picture of her on the Olympic podium adorned with her well-deserved gold medal around her neck. She has both her hands raised high and a bouquet of flowers in her grasp. Jacoby’s bobblehead embodies her victorious spirit perfectly. She admits that the bobblehead might have a funny aspect, but she hopes it can serve as a beacon of inspiration for young women around the world.

Jacoby is the reigning Olympic champion, and she fully understands the significance of her achievements. She emphasizes this by saying, “It’s a privilege, not a right.” At such a young age, she is aware of the hard work it took her in order to rightfully earn her title. While on the podcast, she maintained that wearing the crown of an Olympic champion is a responsibility that she must continually work to uphold.

In order for her to stay at the top, Jacoby believes that she needs to maintain the same dedication and passion that led her to victory in the first place. The year 2022 also saw her set a new national age group record time of 57.54 seconds in the 100-yard breaststroke for the 17?18 age group. However, despite her accolades, the swimming prodigy has a few more tricks up her sleeve and wants a bit more than just swimming.

Lydia Jacoby’s other passions

Along with turquoise water, Jacoby has an immense love for painting, music, and fashion. She demonstrates her artistry off the field through several musical instruments. From playing bass, piano, and guitar to showcasing her vocal talents, Jacoby does it all. She was even in a folk band for five to six years.

Read more: From Cold to Gold: Alaskan Swimmer, Who Once Thrashed Lily King to Bag Olympic Gold Received a ?3000? Standing Ovation

Nevertheless, Jacoby is now all set to move to the University of Texas and continue her fashion interests by studying textiles and apparel design. With still a long way to go in her swimming career, she continues to inspire the next generation of athletes. From her Olympic gold to her heartwarming bobblehead, Lydia Jacoby is a true champion, don’t you agree?

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