Jonas Kazlauskas, who was a finalist at the 2024 Irish Olympic Trials, died suddenly on July 6. He was just 17 years old. The specific cause of death remains unknown to the public at this time.
Swim Ireland, along with clubs and swimmers across the country, have expressed their sadness and offered condolences to Jonas’s family, teammates, and coaches. He is remembered as a well-liked and respected member of the swimming community.
Swim Ireland released the following statement:
“Jonas was a much loved and popular member of his club where he was a member from the age of 7. He won Leinster and National Age Group Titles and was a member of the Leinster Squad in the 2023/24 season.
“Our condolences to Jonas’ family and friends and all at Aer Lingus Swimming Club and Leinster Swimming.”
Kazlauskas competed at the 2024 Irish Open and Olympic Trials last summer, placing 8th in the men’s 200 back (2:17.88), 11th in the 800 free (9:07.58), and 16th in the 100 back (1:03.56). He most recently competed at the Leinster SC Championships this past November.
Kazlauskas also swam in the 2024 Irish National Youth and Senior Championships, where he won a pair of bronze medals (100 backstroke, 400 freestyle) as a member of Aer Lingus Swimming Club.
Jonas is survived by his parents, Ieva and Marius, his siblings, Mykolas and Adele, grandparents, and extended family and friends.
Sad to hear this news. Ireland has done an outstanding job of building a national swimming program over the past few years, and I’m sure Jonas would have been a strong contender to make the 2028 Olympic team. Here’s sending comforting thoughts to his family and friends.
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