Eric Moussambani became an unlikely cult hero at the 2000 Olympics for Equatorial Guinea. Despite not being a strong swimmer, he competed for his country and actually finished the race. Now a swimming coach, his story inspired Equatorial Guinea to build swimming pools and improve their program.
One of the beautiful things about the Olympics is not only the sports being played throughout each event, but the stories that can emerge as a result. The heroes and cult figures that are made and the unique tales that you wouldn't find anywhere else. Several figures have captured the hearts of fans all over the world over the years.
Stars such as Usain Bolt and Simone Biles have been huge favourites with audiences watching both at home and in the venues. One man who became a cult hero for his incredibly unique story is Eric Moussambani. The athlete, who hails from Equatorial Guinea, competed in the Sydney Olympics in 2000 as a swimmer for his country.
The only issue was the fact that he didn't quite know how to really swim. So, how did he even make it to the event? It's quite the story. The little stories that slipped through the net but make the Olympics so special.
Moussambani Was the Only Equatorial Guinea Swimmer Despite the fact he wasn't really a strong swimmer, Moussambani qualified for the Olympics to represent Equatorial Guinea. He did so because the country put a call out to athletes to take part in the 2000 Olympics for the country and he happened to be the only man who sho.