Sukma XXI: Diver Dyg Nursharzyra overcomes injury to secure gold in 1M springboard

KUCHING (Aug 20): Diver Dayang Nursharzyra Awang Nasaruddin proved her resilience and determination when she clinched the gold medal in the 1M springboard event, despite battling a back injury from a muscle tear just two weeks ago.

The 17-year-old earned 232.10 points to outshine her competitors – Terengganu’s Uzlifatil Jannah, who scored 186.60 points for silver, and Federal Territories’ Teng Hui Xue, who took bronze with 173.15 points.

Dayang Nursharzyra’s first gold medal came earlier from the 3M springboard mixed synchronised event, which she won with elder brother Awang Sharzan Nasrin Awang Nasaruddin.

Their mother Norafizah Busman, 46, expressed overwhelming pride and gratitude.

“I feel really proud today. Both my children have won gold in their events. They deserve to win because they have worked so hard for this moment.

“They are very resilient and persevere. Even when they are not feeling well, they still try to train if they can,” Norafizah told The Borneo Post after hugging her daughter.

“Regardless of their results, I will always be proud of them because they have given 100 per cent commitment and dedication.”

Dayang Nursharzyra said she was happy with her achievements especially with the difficulties she faced leading up to the competition.

“I’ve gone through intensive training with my brother, and I’m thankful for the support from our parents towards our sporting careers.”