Retiring paddler reflects on career of glory and agony

KUCHING (Sept 24): Sarawak ping pong player Chow Mei Hsia has decided to retire after the gold medal in the women’s wheelchair singles today. It marks the end of career that began in 2017.

In an emotional interview following the medal presentation ceremony, Chow expressed her gratitude and pride in her swansong at Para Sukma.

“I feel incredibly happy. I never expected this to be my last time winning a gold medal for Sarawak,” she said in a news report by Sarawak Communication Unit (Ukas).

“This is a gift for my husband’s birthday on December 29,” she added while dedicating her victory to him and her late parents.

Chow also shared the numerous sacrifices during her sporting journey through the years.

“Even if it is raining, you still have to go. Once, I got a high fever from training,” she revealed.

Looking ahead, Chow plans to take a break to focus on her health, citing an injury in her finger that may require surgery.

However, she also took the opportunity to offer advice by stressing the hard work behind any success to the next generation of para athletes.

“My advice to the younger ping pong players is: Do not be lazy. Just go out and train for Team Sarawak,” she said.