Banned swimmer's daughters to realise family's Commonwealths dream

Banned swimmer's daughters to realise family's Commonwealth Games dreamImage source, Nel familyImage caption, Twins Olivia (left) and Georgia Nel will both represent South Africa at this summer's Commonwealth Games.ByGraham FraserBBC Scotland NewsPublished24 June 2026Annette Cowley Nel's dreams of winning a swimming gold at the 1986 Commonwealth Games were dashed by a political storm.On the eve of her race at the competition in Edinburgh, she was banned from competing and escorted from the athletes' village by police.But now, 40 years later, things will come an emotional full circle when she watches her daughters compete at the Games.Twins Georgia and Olivia Nel have both been named in South Africa's swimming team for the Games, which get under way in Glasgow next month."It is incredibly special that they have both made the Commonwealth Games," said Cowley Nel."It will be quite an emotional moment."Image source, Nel familyImage caption, Olivia (left) and Georgia Nel (right) with their mum AnnetteThe 1986 Games in Edinburgh had many sporting triumphs - including Liz McColgan's 10,000m gold medal. But they are also remembered for being boycotted by 32 nations from Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.They took a stance against UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's policy on South Africa.Thatcher refused to impose economic sanctions on a regime committed to racial segregation.South Africa's sports stars were banned from competing internationally because of the country's policy of apartheid.Image caption, After Cowley qualified for the 1986 Commonwealth Games for England, she was one of the favourites to win the gold medalCowley Nel describes apartheid as a "terrible time" for South Africa, and says she had wanted equality for all.She believes the changes in the country since then have been "extremely positive" - but remains frustrated that all South African athletes at that time were tr...