BJSS Swimmers In Sync

MALAYSIA'S synchronised swimmers did the country proud by bagging one gold and four silver medals in a regional competition in Singapore recently.

The Southeast Asian Swimming Championships on June 14-24, saw more than 200 athletes from seven countries participating.

Held at the newly-built Aquatic Centre of Singapore's Sports Hub, the inaugural event covered four disciplines -- swimming, diving, water polo and synchronised swimming.

Organisers used the championships to test the new venue's systems and logistics, in preparation for next year's Sea Games.

National synchronised swimming coach Long Yan said: "I'm quite satisfied with the results because most of our team members are young and only had the opportunity to train together for a short time.

"More importantly, I'm happy they adopt a positive attitude in becoming better."

Long Yan, who has been coaching Team Malaysia for five years, acknowledged that rivals Singapore have improved a lot in the past couple of years.

"When you look at the marks in this championship, we're not far off from our rival. We still have time to train hard and come back stronger for next year's SEA Games. We'll definitely step up the pace."

Synchronised swimmers studying at the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) in Kuala Lumpur have had a history of success since Long Yan took over the helm in 2009.

She expects them to achieve peak endurance, strength and flexibility. In order to achieve this, they practise six hours a day, five days a week at the Bukit Jalil Aquatic Centre.

Veronica Lee, who is studying at BJSS, admitted it is not easy balancing intensive training with studies and social life.

"When I was first transferred to BJSS three years ago, it was quite stressful.

"We would wake up early in the morning and by 6.45am, we were in the pool. After two hours of training, we had to be ready for school. There was lunch break and then, by 3pm, we had to be back in the pool again.

"We would trained for another four hours, had dinner, and be ready for night classes.

"It was really hectic and tiring. But after a few months, I got used to it," she said.

"Sometimes when I meet up with friends over the weekend, they would ask me about my training schedule."

Veronica acknowledged that the recent competition in Singapore has given her good exposure.

"I'm excited to be able to participate in bigger championships outside Malaysia.

"I got a feel of the venue and crowd reaction. It has been a worthwhile experience for our team as we prepare for next year's Sea Games in Singapore."

Senior team members Katrina Ann Hadi and Tasha Jane Taher Ali, who are far more experienced at international meets, have more immediate goals to achieve.

In setting their sights on the Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea, in September, Katrina said the right mental attitude is just as important as physical training.

"The important thing is that we give our best and continue to build on the routine we've mastered."