No regrets for Sarawak’s Nur Atirah: Switch to javelin pays off with gold at Para Sukma

Nur Atirah (centre) and teammates Catalina and Rebecca with their medals after winning the javelin throw event at Sarawak Stadium on Sept 26, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 26: Sarawakian para athlete Nur Atirah Voon Abdullah’s decision to switch from track events to the javelin throw has paid off, as she successfully won another gold medal at Para Sukma 2024.

At 37-years-old, Nur Atirah achieved this victory with her second throw, measuring 14.71 metres, which was recognised as the best throw out of six attempts.

In a news report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), she explained that the decision to switch events came about when none of her previous track events were included in the Para Malaysia Games (Para Sukma).

Nur Atirah in action for javelin throw event at Sarawak Stadium on Sept 26, 2024. Photo credit: Ulkas

“This is my first time participating in throwing events, as I previously competed as a sprinter in the 100 metres, 200 metres, and long jump.

“I switched events because there were no opportunities for me, and my coach advised me to transition to throwing events,” she stated during a media interview after the medal presentation ceremony at Sarawak Stadium today.

This time, Nur Atirah, who competed in shot put, javelin throw, and discus throw in the F11 category, managed to secure two gold medals and one bronze.

Additionally, the F11 javelin throw event saw all three Sarawak athletes dominate the podium.

The other two athletes making their mark for Sarawak contingent were Catalina Sunti David Diok and Rebecca Dawi, who achieved throws of 12.33 metres and 9.35 meeres, respectively, earning silver and bronze medals. — DayakDaily