SEA GAMES: On Course To Complete Domination

Malaysia bring total to four and look good for more

Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi (left) and Shareen Png Hui Chuen in action en route to winning gold in the Free Routine Duet event at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre in Palembang yesterday.

Malaysia are on course to complete a sweep in synchronised swimming following victories in the free routine duet and team competitions at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi and Shareen Png Hui Chuen impressed the judges with their execution and grace to the theme of 'Clash of the Titans' for a 76.051 total.

It was their second straight title in duet after Saturday's gold medal performance in the technical event. The silver medal went to Singapore's Stephanie Chen-Crystal Yap, who scored 72.476 points, followed by Indonesia's Samara Talia Pattiasina-Tri Eka Sandiri on 71.563.

In the free routine team discipline, the eight-member national team, led by Katrina Ann, performed the last but it turned out to be the best by scoring 75.825 points followed by Indonesia (73.925) and Thailand (72.113).

Other members of the victorious national team were Hui Chuen, Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap, Tasha Jane Taher Ali, Emanuelle Mah, Ling Yeo Pei and Zyanne Lee, Mun Xin and Tasha Jane were both freaked out before the team event as the jeering of the Indonesian fans was intimidating.

"We were told by our coaches and managers to just concentrate on our routines. As the hosts, the Indonesian team also had an advantage over other teams. We are just glad that we have beaten them once again," said the 22-year-old Mun Xin, who came out of retirement early this year to compete in the Sea Games.

As for Tasha Jane, the 16-year-old said she was surprised that synchronised swimming had a strong following in Indonesia.

"I thought I would be competing in an empty stadium when I first arrived here. I was not prepared for the jeering but thankfully I managed to control my nerves to perform well. I think people here are just curious about the sport," added Tasha Jane.

Malaysia have so far won four gold medals with one event remaining today.

Read more: SEA GAMES: On course to complete domination - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-on-course-to-complete-domination-1.8841#ixzz1eJQ8U3oB