Miri’s rising swimming star Hector Ho to debut at 21st Sukma

KUCHING: Rising swimming star Hector Ho Rze Jun, 18, from Miri is set to debut at the coming 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma).

A statement issued on Thursday (July 4) said that Ho is the sole Miri qualifier for the Games.

“Hector hails from the Sailfish Swimming Club, becoming the first representative from the club to compete in Sukma.

“Club coach Raymond Ting stated that in preparation for Sukma, Hector will undergo training in Kunming, China, from July 15 to Aug 5. 

“This training stint aims to provide him with a higher level of training environment, enhancing his chances of performing well.”

At the 66th Malaysian Open Swimming Championships from May 23-26, Hector clocked 29.36secs in the 50m breaststroke, securing second place and qualifying for Sukma.

“This achievement not only showcases his talent but also makes him a strong contender for a gold medal for Sarawak at Sukma. Moreover, he has the potential to compete for gold at the 46th Southeast Asian Age Group Swimming Championships in Thailand this December.

“During the Malaysian Open Swimming Championships, Hector, along with his teammates, also secured third place in the men’s 4x100m medley relay. 

“He is also set to participate in the 56th Malaysian Schools Sports Council Swimming Championships this September,” Ting said.

Separately, the Sailfish Swimming Club has been excelling in various competitions, continuously achieving remarkable results.

Ting mentioned that from May 3 to 5, the club sent five swimmers to participate in the Milo Splash Swimming Championships held in Shah Alam. 

Despite fierce competition from nearly 1,000 swimmers representing 64 clubs nationwide, the club swimmers stood out, winning three gold, two silver and three bronze medals.

Additionally, from June 29 to 30, the club sent 11 swimmers (nine male and two female) to compete in the Brunei National Age Group Swimming Championships. 

The swimmers once again showcased their prowess, bringing home two gold, three silver and eight bronze medals.

“The club is dedicated to nurturing outstanding swimming talent, and through rigorous training and competition experience, the swimmers’ skills have significantly improved,” Ting said.

He attributed these achievements to the relentless efforts of the coaching team and the swimmers’ dedication. 

“The club will continue to discover and develop more swimming talent, aiming for greater success in future competitions, bringing glory to the club and the nation.

“Of course, this would not have been possible without the strong support from the parents and the facilities provided by the Naim Clubhouse South Lake.

“It is through everyone’s combined efforts that the club can produce more exceptional swimming talent.”