Kelly Teo bags Sarawak’s 70th gold, achieves state’s target

KUCHING (Aug 23): Sarawakian swimming sensation Kelly Teo Yao achieved a significant milestone on the final day of the Sukma XXI aquatic events, securing her sixth gold medal in the women’s 1500m freestyle, which also marked Sarawak’s 70th gold of the games.

In total, Kelly’s impressive performance at Sukma XXI included six golds, one silver, and two bronze medals, surpassing her own expectations.

Initially, Kelly said she had set a target of winning three to four medals. Her achievement left her overjoyed, and she dedicated her success to her parents, who have been her supporters throughout her journey.

“My father Teo Ah Hua, a swim coach, played a crucial part in my early training.

“Although I now train with the national team, clocking in four hours a day, six days a week, I still remember my father’s guidance during my formative years,” she said.

Asked on what her next target would be, she said she will be preparing for the 46th SEA Age Group meet in Thailand this December 6-8.

Kelly’s mother, Liew Mei Hua, who was present during the interview with the press, praised her daughter’s independence, noting that Kelly has been self-reliant since a young age, even going to training on her own when she was big enough.

Her father who was also present, expressing immense pride, acknowledged the challenges Kelly has overcome to reach this level.

He said she joined the national team at the age of 14 and was living independently away from her family.

He hopes to see her continue her progress and represent Malaysia at the next SEA Games.

Meanwhile, as of 9pm tonight, Sarawak has surpassed its initial target with a record-breaking total of 72 golds.

The 72nd gold came from the boxing ring where Frederick Xian Bartholomew Albern emerged victorious in the Men’s Featherweight (54-57kg) category.

Sarawak’s athletes have excelled across various disciplines.

The aquatic events were the most gold contributors with gold medals including nine from diving.

Taekwondo followed with an impressive haul of 11 gold medals while athletics, muaythai, petanque, tenpin bowling and pencak silat each contributed five golds.

In addition, Sarawak’s athletes excelled in wushu, adding five more gold medals to the tally, while the boxing team secured four golds.

Furthermore, Sarawak’s squash team claimed two golds, the golf team added two more golds, and Sarawak’s archers bagged two gold medals.

Judo, karate, and artistic gymnastics each continued with one gold.

The volleyball team added a gold medal to Sarawak’s achievement followed by the fencing team which also contributed one gold.

As of 9pm, Sarawak is still leading the overall medals table with 72 golds ahead of Federal Territories (69), Selangor (51), Terengganu (38), and Penang (35).