Sukma XXI: Elvis Priestley Clement secures first gold for Sarawak’s diving team

KUCHING (Aug 19): Sarawak’s Elvis Priestley Clement made a splash at the Sukma XXI 2024 by clinching the first gold medal for the state’s diving team.

The 18-year-old from Sarikei triumphed in the men’s 3-metre springboard final at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre today, defeating 13 other competitors. Elvis amassed a total of 415.15 points to secure the top spot.

Federal Territories’ Rui Jie Yong claimed silver with 388.80 points, while compatriot Nurqayyum Nazmi Mohamad Nazim won bronze with 377.65 points.

Another Sarawakian, Awang Sharzan Nasrin Awang Nasaruddin, finished fifth with 306.75 points.

Speaking after the event, Elvis expressed his delight at achieving his target of winning gold in the 3-metre springboard.

“I had set a goal for myself to win gold in the 3-metre springboard event, and I dedicate this medal to myself.

“But my main events are the men’s 10-metre platform and the men’s 10-metre synchronised platform,” he said.

After Sukma, Elvis said he will shift his focus to qualifying for the Olympic Games, aspiring to be Malaysia’s best diver.

After today’s men’s 3-metre springboard event, Elvis will next compete in the 10-meter synchronised platform final tomorrow and the 10-metre platform on Thursday.