Young Sarawak swimmers share first Sukma experience as events close

KUCHING (Aug 23): As Sukma XXI swimming events draw to a close on the fifth day of aquatic events, three young swimmers reflect on their first-time experience in this prestigious competition.

Shanise Jauwa Joseline Adong, Chereen Ngo, and Kayleigh Ang Zhi Xuan, all just 14 years old, have not only earned bronze medals in their respective events but have also shared the excitement, challenges, and triumphs of their Sukma debut.

Shanise earned a bronze in 200-metre backstroke with her time 2:28.97, while Ngo also made headlines when earn bronze in 200m Individual Medley, finishing with a time of 2:26.57, and bronze in 200m Freestyle 2:10.97 and Ang earned bronze in 200-metre butterfly with her time 2:23.71.

For Ang, winning a medal in her first Sukma appearance felt almost unreal for the young swimmer.

She said the moment she saw her time and realized her place among the top finishers, a wave of emotions overwhelmed her.

Standing on the podium with the other medalists, she said she was filled with joy and pride, knowing that her hard work had paid off.

Initially uncertain about her performance, the win in the 200m butterfly exceeded her expectations. It left her deeply grateful to her coaches, family, and friends for their unwavering support.

“I didn’t expect to win anything during this sukma. It came as a shock to me when I improved two seconds in prelims and another three seconds in finals during my 200 butterfly, finishing with a time of 2:23.7.

“Before this, I didn’t think I was capable of a time like that,” she shared.

Ang said she began swimming at age seven as a way to overcome her struggles in the pool during holidays. What started as a necessity quickly grew into a passion, especially after competing and forming lifelong friendships.

Specializing in the butterfly and individual medley, Ang said she had focused her training on the butterfly stroke leading up to Sukma.

To celebrate her unexpected but thrilling accomplishment, she plans to enjoy a meal with her loved ones.

Ngo expressed her happiness at winning medals in her first Sukma appearance, especially as she also achieved personal best times.

Reflecting on her performance, she shared that it motivates her to train even harder in hopes of winning more medals in the next Sukma.

She said she began swimming when she was four and a half years old. She specialises in freestyle and Individual Medley.

While she had hoped to win a gold medal this time, she remains determined to bring home the gold for Sarawak in the next Sukma.

She said after managing her time, she plans to return to rigorous training with that goal in mind.

Shanise shared her happiness and pride in winning a medal in an event she had trained so hard for.

The achievement holds deep significance for her, as it reflects the effort and dedication she has poured into her training.

Having started swimming at the age of four, Shanise has specialized in the backstroke, a stroke that has now earned her a spot on the podium.

She said despite not expecting to win due to the strong competition from other fast swimmers, she was pleasantly surprised by her success.

After the competition, she plans to celebrate with her family and relatives, cherishing this special moment.