KUCHING: Sarawak’s boccia athletes did well in the National Boccia Circuit 1 competition, securing one gold, three silver and one bronze.
The competition was held at Pusat Kecemerlangan Sukan Paralimpik Kampung Pandan from July 21 to 26.
Willyien Cliff Honseng brought home the gold, marking his triumphant journey in the sport after five years of involvement. He emerged as a national champion, adding glory to Sarawak Boccia Team, which represented Para Sukma 2018 in Perak.
Nur Aishah, Jervis Chi Hong Zhe and Sheirviana Mathew each secured a silver medal, displaying their skills and determination on the national stage.
Muhd Nur Sharizan earned a well-deserved bronze, defeating more experienced opponents in only his second circuit.
Sarawak Boccia Association secretary and team manager Chi Poh Yung expressed satisfaction with the athletes’ outstanding performances, stating that they surpassed expectations.
He also said Zulkarnain Malateh managed to enter the quarter-finals in his maiden outing.
“The competition provided valuable experience and exposure, shedding light on areas where the athletes can further strengthen their skills.
“What we need to do after this is to hone the athletes’ throwing techniques to enhance their ability to hit the jack balls and score points.
“On top of that, our athletes need to prepare for different competition environments, including handling distractions and noise from the audience and opponents’ supporters,” he said on Wednesday (July 26).
Chi also shared pride in seeing two other Sarawak athletes, Angelina Lawas and Abdul Razzaq Abdul Rahman, excelling under the National Sports Council team in their respective categories.
He expressed gratitude to the Sarawak government, particularly the Community Welfare Department (JKM), for their unwavering support since the association’s establishment.
“Without JKM’s support, such remarkable achievements and representation of Sarawak and Malaysia on international platforms would not have been possible,” Chi stressed.
