Another Clean Sweep But Lack Of Interest May Pose A Problem

PALEMBANG: Malaysia completed another clean sweep in synchronised swimming – the second since the 2001 KL Games after dishing out stunning performances over the three days.

Although the team, spearheaded by golden duet duo Katrina Ann Hadi and Shareen Png, made winning five gold medals seem like child’s play, it was, in reality, far from it.

The team, made up of experienced swimmers like Shareen, Katrina and Zylane Lee together with youngsters like 16-year-olds Tasha Jane and Emanuelle Mah, had to work hard to overcome several adversities.

First, there was the hostile crowd which pick­ed on Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, un­­animously booing swimmers from these countries when they marched out for the parade.

High five: The Malaysian synchronised swimming team celebrating with their coach Long Yan (second from left) at the Jakabaring Aquatics Stadium in Palembang on Monday.

Then, there were the speculations that the judging was biased towards the hosts.

Yet, the Malaysian swimmers kept their focus, knuckled down and performed spectacularly to silence the boisterous crowd – time and again.

So dominant were they that even the most biased judge had no choice but to grudgingly give them the points they deserved. No wonder Malaysia are ranked top in the region.

However, although Katrina and company ran the show here, there is a genuine concern over the lack of depth in the squad.

National head coach Long Yan only has 10 swimmers under her charge and all are here at the Games.

That means there is no back-up should one of them be injured.

And that is exactly what happened. Nineteen-year-old Zylane had suffered a neck injury during training two weeks ago and was advised by doctors to rest for six weeks. She was warned that aggravating the injury could lead to paralysis.

But since there was no one to replace her, she travelled with the team. She was only named as a reserve until the final event – the free team combination, which required all 10 swimmers to compete.

And aggravate the injury she did. Fortunately, all is fine. Zylane got her gold and can now look forward to a well-earned break.

“The standard of the Malaysian team is definitely higher than the other SEA countries and winning competitions like this is not much of a problem, or challenge,” said Long Yan, who has been coaching the squad for the past two years.

“There is potential in synchronised swimming and I really hope to guide Katrina and Shareen to the London Olympics next year.

“What bothers me is the lack of junior swimmers coming through at state level. I have just 10 swimmers under my charge. Only two of them – Tasha and Emanuelle – are youngsters who joined us earlier this year. This has to change if we are to stay a dominant force in the region.”

With synchronised swimming not expected to feature in the 2013 Myanmar Games, perhaps it is time for the states to step up to the plate and place more emphasis on a sport that holds much potential for Malaysia.

They have to ensure that interest in the sport does not diminish once current swimmers, like 27-year-old Shareen, call it quits.

This will also give us time to nurture fresh talent for the 2015 Singapore Games, where synchronised swimming will almost certainly be part of the programme.

For now, our golden beauties deserve all the credit – and some much needed rest – for an outstanding campaign.

SEA GAMES: Zylane Defies Doctor's Order

SHORTLY after the national synchronised squad announced the team combination gold medallists yesterday, Zylane Lee Ying Huey could not hold back the tears.

The national synchronised squad bagged all five gold medals at stake in Palembang.

Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi and Shareen Png Hui Chuen.

The Selangor swimmer could have been paralysed if her routine had gone wrong at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre.

Zylane was told to rest for six weeks after sustaining an injury to her neck in training but the 19-year-old defied her doctor's orders to compete in Palembang.

"My doctor told me I could be paralysed if I continued with training and competition. I was told to rest for six weeks after I got kicked in the neck twice, once late last month and the other time, about 10 days ago," said Zylane, a matriculation student with the Bukit Jalil Sports School, yesterday.

"I could have been paralysed today (yesterday) as I got kicked once again by a teammate during my entry into the pool. It was the most painful four or five minutes of my life as I had to concentrate on my routines and also coordinate with the rest.

"I forced myself to synchronise my twists and turns despite the pain as I was determined not to let down my team. At that point, I thought I would be paralysed as my back was awfully painful."

Zylane applied an ice pack to her back after the prize giving ceremony before she was taken to the medical room for further treatment. Thankfully it was later diagnosed that her problem was not serious.

"I am glad to win the gold after missing out on the opening four competitions due to injury. I've won and luckily my injury was not serious. I will now take my six-week rest before I continue with my training," she said.

The 10-member team comprising Shareen Png, Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi, Mandy Yeap, Emanuelle Mah, Ling Yeo Ping, Yu Gan Zhen, Tay May Mei, Tasha Jane Taher Ali, Zylane and Zyanne, earned 75.363 for their performance to the song Rio de Janeiro.

Singapore took silver with a 73.101 total ahead of Indonesia on 71.713.

The victory meant the national synchronised swimmers bagged all five gold medals at stake in Palembang with Shareen and Katrina Ann having a stake in each triumph.

Coach Long Yan said her team were unsure of victory in yesterday's event due to Zylane's injury.

"It was the most difficult gold medal for my girls but each of them, especially Zylane, put up a great performance to win the title.

"Our next event is the Olympic Qualifiers in April and I hope our girls will be more confident going into the event after our success here," said Long Yan, a former China international.

Read more: SEA GAMES: Zylane defies doctor's order - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-zylane-defies-doctor-s-order-1.9305#ixzz1ePKtOgzh

Zylane Soldiers On Despite Threat Of Being Paralysed

PALEMBANG: Two weeks ago, Zylane Lee suffered a kick to her neck during a training routine in preparation for the SEA Games.

She suffered another kick on the same spot a few days later and doctors advised her to pull out of the Games or risk paralysis if the injury was aggravated.

But the 19-year-old synchronised swimmer was determined to compete in the Games and coach Long Yan eventually relented. But Zylane was only named as a reserve in the technical and free team event ... until yesterday.

The free team combination, the final synchronised swimming event required all 10 swimmers to compete or risk having their points deducted.

A determined Zylane bravely took the plunge, suffering another kick right at the start of the routine. The brave lass performed through the pain barrier as Malaysia scored their fifth win for a clean sweep of all the gold medals at stake.

Zylane, visibly in pain and barely able to stand after the routine, was all smiles as she lined up to collect the precious gold medal.

“I was kicked twice on the back of my neck two weeks ago and it was really painful down to the spine. It made me feel numb,” said Zylane, who started synchronised swimming when she was only six.

“Doctors told me to rest for six weeks as they feared the injury could lead to paralysis. But I was determined to make the trip.

“I got yet another kick in the back when our routine started as I was the last one to dive in and had to swim past the others. I felt numb instantly but I managed to hold out till the end.

“Having won the gold, I definitely feel relieved and happy as the risk was worth it.”

Long Yan explained that she had not wanted to put Zylane at risk, but there was no choice as the entire synchronised swimming squad only had 10 members.

“She desperately wanted to be here and was initially entered for three events. But I kept her as a reserve until the free team combination which required all 10 swimmers to perform,” said Long Yan.

“It’s back to serious rest for her now and she should heed the doctor’s advice.”

Katrina And Shareen Win All Medals At Stake At Synchronised Swimming

 PALEMBANG: Katrina Ann Hadi came to the SEA Games with only three gold medals as her target – mainly due to the fact that synchronised swimming, being a subjective sport, usually favours the hosts.

However, after everything was done and dusted, the 19-year-old Katrina and duet partner Shareen Png were proud owners of five glittering gold medals having swept all the events.

The duo are the only athletes to have won five gold medals here. Bowler Adrian Ang is next best with his four.

Katrina-Shareen, having already delivered golds in the free duet, technical duet, free team and technical team events, were once again at their dazzling best in the fifth and final event, the free team combination, yesterday.

Wonderful show: Katrina Ann Hadi and Shareen Png showing off the five gold medals they won in synchronised swimming in Jakabaring.

Katrina, Shareen and the rest of the girls – Mandy Yeap, Yeo Pei Ling, Tan May Mei, Emanuelle Mah, Gan Zhen Yu, Tasha Jane, Zyanne and Zylane Lee – were simply too good for their regional rivals.

Performing to the song ‘Rio de Janeiro’, the team scored 75.363 points to easily win gold as Malaysia stamped their authority on the sport.

Singapore scored 73.101 to take silver while Indonesia were a distant third with 71.713.

A delighted Katrina could hardly contain her excitement after helping Malaysia to yet another grand finish.

“I came with only a three-gold target in mind and I’ve won five – that’s a real bonus,” said the pretty Katrina.

“Right now my priority is to try and qualify for the London Olympics next year but it won’t be easy.

“My personal target is the 2016 Olympics and, hopefully, I’ll continue swimming until then.”

Duet partner Shareen, who at 27 is the oldest in the team, echoed Katrina’s sentiments.

“It feels great to have won five gold medals. I’m really thankful that I managed to remain patient all this time. It has been really worth the wait,” said Shareen.

“I’m not that young anymore so I really want to try and qualify for the London Olympics as it could be my last hurrah.

“I’ll be going for the Olympic qualifier, in London next April, with Katarina. Hopefully, we’ll make it, but there are only about six slots left.”

This is the second time since the 2001 KL Games that Malaysia have made a clean sweep in synchronised swimming.

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

Synchro Girls Silence Unruly Crowd By Snatching Two Golds

PALEMBANG: The Malaysian synchronised swimming girls got off to a smashing start on the first day of competition when they snatched both gold medals at stake yesterday.

Despite jeers from some unruly sections of the crowd, Katrina Ann Hadi and Shareen Png delivered an outstanding performance to win the technical routine duet final ahead of Singapore and Indonesia.

Katrina and Shareen then joined the rest of the team – Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap, Emanuelle Mah, Yeo Pei Ling, Zyanne and Zylane Lee – to give a masterclass in the team technical routine for the second gold.

They scored 74.750 – far ahead of second-placed Thailand (70.750) and joint bronze medallists Indonesia and Singapore (both 70.375).

Dressed in the Harimau Muda colours, complete with numbers sewn onto their backs, the swimmers were graceful and dazzling as they performed to a mash-up of Shakira’s Waka Waka and Knaan’s Waving Flag.

It was a remarkable achievement for the team, considering that they only started training seriously in August while the likes of Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia already had proper programmes much earlier.

Katrina, 19, dedicated her gold to younger sister Farah Ann.

Farah suffered an injury and failed to win an expected gold in artistic gymnastics, managing only a silver.

She has returned home to sit for her SPM examinations. “It’s sad that she didn’t win gold and had to fly back early for her exams but she gave me all her love before she left,” said Katrina.

“I’m thrilled to win two golds but I’m also a bit surprised as we did not expect to do so well in the team event.”

She added the jeers from the crowd hardly affected her as she was focused when the music began.

“Once the event began and we got into the water, the music is all we hear ... nothing else.”

Katrina will be competing in the free duet and free team routines where another gold is expected.

Malaysia Achieves 45 Gold Medal Target, Thanks To Katrina Ann and Hui

PALEMBANG: Synchronised swimmers Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi and Shareen Hui claimed the first gold medal on the opening day Saturday of the 26th SEA Games synchronised swimming event at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre here. 

Dazzling duo: Malaysia’s Shareen Png and Katrina Ann Hadi performing their gold-medal winning routine in the technical duet final Saturday.

The duo's gold was also Malaysia's 45th gold medal in the Games, the earlier medal target set by Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Katrina Ann and Hui dazzled the spectators at the aquatic centre with their superb routine and scored a total of 76.125 points - 37.750 points for execution and 38.375 points for overall impression.

The silver medal was won by Singapore's Stephnie Chen and Cyrstal Yap with 72.750 points while host country swimmers Adela Amanda Nirmala and Sabihisma Arsyi claimed the bronze with 71.000 points.

"We are glad to be part of Malaysia's gold medal winners. We did not expect to win as the Singaporeans are also good," said the 27-year-old Hui.

She said they had been training hard for their new routine for the SEA Games since August after returning home from the FINA Swimming Championships in Shanghai, China in July.

Two hours later, Katrina Ann and Hui combined forces with six other Malaysian synchronised swimmers to claim Malaysia's second gold medal in the technical routine team event competition with a total of 74.750 points.

The silver medal was won by Thailand on 70.750 points while hosts Indonesia took the bronze with 70.375 points.

Shareen Savours Crowning Moment After 10-year Wait

PALEMBANG: Shareen Png was just a pre-swimmer – one who swims before the main event and sets the level for judges in synchronised swimming – 10 years ago in the 2001 KL SEA Games.

Then, Malaysia swept all five golds at stake before synchronised swimming went missing from all subsequent Games until now.

The 27-year-old Shareen is now an established synchronised swimmer in Malaysia, having featured in last year’s Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and this year’s World Championships.

And yesterday was her crowning moment as she combined with top synchronised swimmer Katrina Ann Hadi to clinch gold in the technical routine duet.

The duo were simply dazzling in their routine – performed to the theme song from the movie Mr and Mrs Smith – and were clearly a class above the rest with a total score of 76.125.

Singapore’s Stephanie Chen-Crystal Yap took silver with 72.750 while Indonesians Adela Amanda Nirmala-Sabihisma Arysi settled for bronze.

Sarawakian Shareen was overjoyed when told that she had won Malaysia’s 46th gold medal– surpassing the contingent’s target of 45.

“I’m really happy to have contributed gold No. 46 because this is really a dream come through,” said Shareen.

“Ten years ago I was just a pre-swimmer. Now, I’ve been given the chance to swim as a participant and I’m glad it was well worth the 10-year wait.”

SEA GAMES: Swimmers Dazzle, Football Shines

60 gold possible after super show

The synchronised swimmers in action in the Technical Routine Team event at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre in Palembang yesterday.

The synchronised swimmers in action in the Technical Routine Team event at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre in Palembang yesterday.

The jeers from the Indonesian crowd failed to dampen Malaysian spirits as the national contingent enjoyed another productive day in Jakarta and Palembang.

Not only did the national athletes win six gold medals, which took the haul past the official target of 40-45, the footballers made the final after edging Myanmar 1-0 in a nervy semi-final.

The star of the day, however, was Heidi Gan after she added the 10km open water swimming gold to the 5km title won on Thursday.

It was a remarkable achievement, considering the gruelling nature of the events but Heidi is now hoping her exploits will convince the Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia (ASUM) to back her in her bid to qualify for the London Olympics.

It is the least ASUM should do, considering that despite open water swimming not enjoying the status of swimming and diving, Heidi contributed two gold medals to the national haul.

In fact, ASUM must be glowing with pride for its athletes also contributed two synchronised swimming gold medals yesterday.

First, Shareen Png Hui Chuen and Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi combined perfectly to win the technical duet event.

The duo then came back for a second bite of the cherry and together with Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap Mun Yip, Emanuelle Mah Thil Da, Ling Yep Pei, Zyanne Lee Zhien Huey and Zylane Lee Ying Huey, they swept the technical team gold.

Barring upsets or biased decisions, the Malaysians should pick up the remaining three gold medals at stake.

The track cyclists are also good for a clean sweep after winning the two events contested yesterday.

Against a backdrop of jeers and abuse at the Rawamangun Velodrome in Jakarta, Fatehah Mustapa and Harrif Salleh swept the women's 500m time trial and men's 10km scratch race respectively.

Their wins were even more commendable considering the intimidation they had to endure from a hostile crowd.

Wushu exponent Lee Yang ended a wait spanning four Sea Games when he clinched the taijiquan-taijijian combined gold medal.

A former world champion, the gold was Lee Yang's first ever Sea Games medal.

However, it was not all good news as sailing ended its campaign without a gold, which is surely a blow for the sport.

But with the football team advancing to the final and another six gold added to the haul, hopes are high that the final tally could reach 60.

Read more: SEA GAMES: Swimmers dazzle, football shines - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-swimmers-dazzle-football-shines-1.8397#ixzz1eDzXC7uL

SEA GAMES: Party At The Pool

Synchronised swimmers in their element

Synchronised swimmers Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi (right) and Shareen Png Hui Chuen starting off their routine in the technical duet event.

Shareen Png Hui Chuen waited for a decade to be on the podium while Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi outdid her younger sister and national gymnast Farah Ann as Malaysia swept two gold medals on the opening day of synchronised swimming at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

Hui Chuen was in the squad for the 2001 Sea Games, the last time synchronised swimming was contested, but only as a pre-swimmer.

A pre-swimmer swims before the main event and sets the level for the judges.

She and Katrina Ann first twisted and turned to perfection to the tune of 'Tango' from the Brad Pitt movie, Mr. And Mrs Smith, to upstage their rivals in the technical duet event.

The judges awarded them a 37.750 total for execution and 38.375 for overall impression for a combined score of 76.125 points.

Singapore's Stephanie Chen Mei Qi -Crystal Yap Yu Hui rocked their way to silver with 72.750 followed by Indonesia's Adela Amanda Nirmala-Sabihisma Arsyi on 71.000.

In the second competition of the day, the eight-team member squad led by Hui Chuen, were flawless in their routine to Shakira's 'Waka Waka' tune to snatch the technical team gold with 74.750 points ahead of silver medallists Thailand (70.750).

Indonesia and Singapore, who both earned an identical score of 70.375 points, were each awarded a bronze medal.

The other members of the Malaysian team were Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap Mun Yip, Emanuelle Mah Thil Da, Ling Yep Pei, Zyanne Lee Zhien Huey and Zylane Lee Ying Huey.

"When I received the gold medal on the podium I felt so proud of myself. I waited for this moment for so long as I did not get to be in the first team at the 2001 KL Games," said Shareen.

"I was only a pre-swimmer then but I continued to train hard in hope I would get to compete in the Sea Games. I knew it was my time to be in the limelight when the sport was included once again in these Games."

Shareen's regular partner was Zhien Huey and their best result was fourth placing at the New Delhi Commonwealth Games before she was paired up with Katrina for the first time in the Guangzhou Asian Games, where they finished sixth in the technical duet.

As for Katrina, the 19-year-old was all excited about winning two gold medals.

"I wanted so much to win two titles today (yesterday) so that I could give one medal to my sister, Farah Ann, and I achieved it. She was injured and could only win silver in the uneven bars.

"I wish Farah Ann was here but she's back in KL for her SPM examinations. If she wants one of my gold medals, I would happily give it to her," said the delighted Katrina.

The national synchronised swimmers will continue their campaign in the free duet and team today.



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Asum Can’t Depend On Veterans To Delivern The Golds Any More

PALEMBANG: If not for Kevin Yeap, Christina Loh and veterans Siow Yi Ting and Khoo Cai Lin, it could have been a disastrous campaign for Malaysia in swimming.

The Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia (Asum) only projected a modest four-gold target fter top star Daniel Bego pulled out due to injuries.

But the team notched one extra gold at the end of the six-day competition for a haul of 5-9-3.

Christina, having already notched the fastest time in the region, was expected to win the 50m breaststroke gold medal while Kevin made amends by pacing himself well to take the men’s 400m freestyle title after failing to do so in the last two Games.

Yi Ting defended her 100m and 200m breaststroke titles as Malaysia swept all three golds at stake for the first time – with Cai Lin enjoying a well-deserved victory in the 800m freestyle.

But the question is how much longer can Malaysia depend on Yi Ting, Cai Lin and Daniel? Yi Ting has indicated that she will continue swimming until next year in a bid to earn a fourth appearance at the Olympics. She is unlikely to stick around for the next SEA Games in Myanmar in two years’ time.

The good thing is Christina has emerged as a capable successor to Yi Ting and is likely to reign in the shorter breaststroke disciplines. But unlike Yi Ting, she is not focusing on the 200m breaststroke and 200m individual medley – and that is a problem.

There is also a big question mark over whether Cai Lin and Daniel can still deliver the goods for Malaysia, if they are around for the next SEA Games, as they will have to contend with younger and hungrier rivals.

Even if Daniel had competed here, he may not have been able to deliver as many golds as he managed in Laos.

The Best Sportsman of the Laos Games with five golds, he could have suffered a beating at the hands of Joseph Schooling of Singapore and Hoang Quy Phuoc of Vietnam in the butterfly races.

There have been no swimmers going overseas for training since the days of Alex Lim Keng Liat, who was based in the United States. Perhaps that is why Malaysia do not have swimmers good enough to challenge those being produced by Singapore.

But to be fair, Singapore put in a lot of resources into swimming. They have several coaches just to take care of the SEA Games squad.

In fact, their swimming queen Tao Li, who romped to seven gold medals here, even has a personal coach whereas our national coach Paul Birmingham has to handle a squad of 17.

While happy with the overall performance of his team, Birmingham felt it could have been better.

“We won the events we were expected to but we also got many silvers. We had swimmers with upset stomachs and those like Ian James Barr and Yap See Tuan also had to deal with injuries,” he said.

“I was counting on Ian to achieve something special here but he tore his chest muscles and did not train for three weeks. It was the same with See Tuan, he had to wait too long and suffered from cramps before swimming the 200m breaststroke.”

SEA GAMES: Teammate Rivalry

 
Christina denies compatriot Yi Ting a clean sweep of the breaststroke events

The national divers, who won seven gold medals at the Sea Games, arriving at KLIA from Indonesia yesterday.

Christina Low won the women's 50 metres breaststroke title to stop compatriot Siow Yi Ting's attempt at sweeping all three breaststroke gold medals at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

The 16-year-old clocked 32.49 seconds to deny Yi Ting, who took silver in 32.81. Thailand's Pawapo Phiangkhwan claimed the bronze in 33.39. Yi Ting had won the 100m and 200m events and was hoping to complete a sweep by bagging the 50m.

But the day belonged to Christina, who has been rewriting her 50m national record since the start of the year.

"I'm quite happy with today's (yesterday) performance, especially winning my first Sea Games gold medal. I wanted to break my national record but it did not happen," said Christina.

"It was a tough race and beating Yi Ting in this event is good for my development as a swimmer. I will concentrate on the 100m race for next year's Malaysian Open, which is an Olympic qualifying event."

Yi Ting, however, could have done better if she had a longer break after her silver medal effort in the 200m individual medley race. She had less than 30 minutes to rest before she lined up for the 50m.

Kevin Yeap failed to add the 1,500m freestyle gold to his 400m freestyle win when he was edged by Singapore's Teo Zhen Ren, who clocked 15:44.32.

Kevin earned the silver in 15:53.79 followed by the Philippines' Ryan Arebejo (16:01.26).

Marellyn Liew won her third silver medal by recording 27.63, finishing behind Singapore's Asian Games champion Tao Li, who posted 26:59 in the women's 50m butterfly.

She had taken silver in the 100m butterfly and 4x100m medley last weekend.

Malaysia's Ian James Barr earned his first individual Sea Games title by clinching the bronze in the men's 200m individual medley by clocking 2:06.96.

Thailand's Netin Nuttaphon and Singapore's Joseph Schooling won the gold and silver respectively.

Foo Jian Beng led Malaysia to a bronze in the men's 4x100 medley at the expense of Singapore, who were disqualified.

Malaysia completed their campaign in the six-day competition with a haul of five gold, nine silver and three bronze medals. Singapore were crowned overall champions with 17 gold with seven of them coming from Tao Li.

Read more: SEA GAMES: Teammate rivalry - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-teammate-rivalry-1.7669#ixzz1e1oGmxEy

Christina Marks Her Arrival With Gold In 50m Breaststroke

PALEMBANG: Youngster Christina Loh announced her arrival as a swimming star by winning the 50m breaststroke for her first Games gold at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

There were fears whether Yi Ting was up to the task as she had barely enough rest after taking silver in the 200m individual medley earlier.

But the fears were unfounded as Christina swam a flawless race to touch home first in 32.49.

Yi Ting followed closely for the silver in 32.81, ahead of Thailand’s Pawapo Phianghwan (33.39).

Christina’s winning time was just outside her national record of 32.29 set at the World Championships in Shanghai in July, but it was enough for Malaysia to complete a sweep of of three women’s breaststroke titles.

Christina was beaten to the gold by Yi Ting in the 100m breaststroke two days ago but it was her turn for glory yesterday.

She was grinning from ear to ear and sang Negaraku as she stood on top of the podium.

“I’m happy to have bagged my first gold although it’s not a personal best. It was a tough race, a tough fight and I’m happy to have come out tops after not taking home any medals before,” said Christina, who finished sixth in the 200m breaststroke – the only event she swam in Laos. Yi Ting’s hopes of a triple gold feat in Palembang were dashed when she was beaten by Thailand’s Natthanan Junkrajang in the 200m individual medley. Yi Ting clocked 2:20.11 ahead of Indonesia’s Dewi Ressa, who took the bronze in 2:21.31.

Kevin Yeap failed to complete a double as he fell short in the men’s 1,500m freestyle.

Kevin could not chase the stronger Teo Zhen Ren of Singapore in the closing moments and settled for silver in 15:53.79.

The Singaporean clocked a winning time of 15:44.32 as defending champion Ryan Arabejo of the Philippines settled for bronze in 16:01.26.

Marellyn Liew bagged her third silver medal after posting a 27.63 with Singapore sensation Tao Li striding to victory in 26.59, and her seventh gold.

The Sabah-born Marellyn took silver in the 100m butterfly and 4x100m medley last week.

Ian James Barr claimed his first medal at the Games with a bronze in the 200m individual medley in 2:06.96.

Malaysia completed the six-day campaign in swimming with a haul of 5-9-3.

SEA GAMES: Perfect Record

HAPPY ENDING: Ken Nee bids farewell with sixth springboard individual title

Yeoh Ken Nee with the 3-metre springboard gold medal, his 15th title in eight Sea Games appearances. - Picture by HASAN ISMAIL

Yeoh Ken Nee bade farewell to the Sea Games in grand style by lifting his 15th title in the men's 3-metre springboard individual event at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday as Pandelela Rinong added the women's 10m platform individual gold to Malaysia's haul on the final day of diving yesterday.

The 28-year-old Ken Nee led from start to finish for a 458.15 total to earn his second gold after winning the springboard synchro with Bryan Nickson Lomas in Palembang on Monday.

Teammate Ahmad Amsyar Azmar took the bronze with 397.30 behind Indonesia's Akhmad Sukran Jamjami on 401.85.

Ken Nee first competed in the Sea Games at the 1995 Chiangmai edition before clinching Malaysia's first ever diving medal, a bronze, in the 10m platform individual two years later in Jakarta.

He made further breakthroughs for Malaysian diving by earning the country's first ever Sea Games gold medal at the 1999 Brunei Games and since then, except for the 2003 Hanoi edition, he has kept a perfect record in the 3m springboard discipline.

Ken Nee's success yesterday was his sixth springboard individual title and it was won in style with flawless dives.

"Eight Sea Games are enough. I will quit after the London Olympic Games. Age is not on my side and recovery from injuries is tough," said Ken Nee. "My body can't take the tough training. However, I will return as a coach."

"I thank everyone for supporting my career, especially my coach Yang Zhuliang. He supported me during the good and bad times. I want to dedicate my final Sea Games title to him."

Ken Nee qualified for his second Olympic Games in London by earning a spot in the event at last month's Diving Asian Cup in Kuala Lumpur.

However Ken Nee, along with Bryan Nickson Lomas, are bidding to earn an Olympic spot in the synchro discipline at February's World Cup in London.

Pandelela made a mistake in her third dive from an arm stand position in the 10m platform but was still too good for the rest.

The 18-year-old amassed a massive 342.90 points to retain her title and grab the final gold medal.

Compatriot Kam Ling Kar made it a one-two for Malaysia with a 260.85 total on her debut appearance. Indonesia's Della Dinarsari Harimurti took bronze on 250.50.

The Malaysian divers bagged seven titles from eight events but could have made a clean sweep if they had not withdrawn from the men's 10m platform synchro.

Read more: SEA GAMES: Perfect record - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-perfect-record-1.7178#ixzz1dvn5cT2M

SEA GAMES: Unique Treble In Sight

A clean sweep in women's breaststroke for Malaysia after Siow Yi Ting successfully retained her 200m race at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

Siow Yi Ting is eyeing a clean sweep of the breaststroke events

   It was an easy win for Yi Ting as she pulled away to win from Salubluek Chavuninoch of Thailand by a body length after 150 metres before hitting the wall in 2:33.67 seconds. Salubluek clocked 2:35.67 ahead of Singapore's Samantha Yeo (2:37.12). Yi Ting's teammate Christina Low Yen Ling was fourth in 2:39.65.

It was Yi Ting's second gold after retaining her 100m breaststroke on Tuesday.

Yi Ting, however, was not too happy with her performance.

"I need to train harder to cut down my time in order to qualify for the Olympics. I'm not at my peak yet," said the Seremban-born swimmer.

Yi Ting's success also meant that the Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia met their target of four gold medals.

The 27-year-old and Yen Ling will be out to complete a sweep in breaststroke events in today's 50m race where the latter, who has clocked the fastest time in this region of 32.29, is the favourite.

Yi Ting's other event today is the 200m individual medley where she is the defending champion.

"I will concentrate on the 50m breaststroke as I am not too confident in the individual medley," she added.

Malaysia's quartet of Foo Jian Beng, Kevin Yeap, Vernon Lee and Lim Ching Hwang had a fantastic race in the 4x200m to take the silver medal in 7:35.99 behind Singapore (7:31.98). The Philippines edged Indonesia for the bronze, clocking 7:36.93.

The national swimmers will be hoping for a golden splash in today's final day of competition where they have a chance for gold medals in the men's 1,500 freestyle (Kevin Yeap), women's 50m breaststroke (Yen Ling) and 200m individual medley (Yi Ting).

Meanwhile, Khoo Cai Lin has withdrawn from the women's 5km race in open water swimming due to a shoulder injury.

Read more: SEA GAMES: Unique treble in sight - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-unique-treble-in-sight-1.7180#ixzz1dvm81VBt

SEA GAMES: Target Achievable

SURPRISE: Young guns add to optimistic mood

The national divers, who won seven gold medals, celebrate after the final day of competition yesterday. 

Fears that Malaysia would miss out on the official target were dispelled by National Sports Council director general Datuk Zolkples Embong as another six gold medals were added to the national tally yesterday.

 The NSC had set a target of 40-45 gold medals, which some quarters had criticised as too low, but it is beginning to look more realistic compared to the 60 the national associations had expected.

Some who targeted gold have already fallen by the wayside, which Zolkples said he expected, but especially pleasing was the emergence of certain sports.

"Yes, in some sports where we were expected to deliver -- like karate and taekwondo -- we lost. But still, there were the likes of fencer Joshua Koh and the men's 4x400m quartet in athletics that delivered pleasant surprises, so we're not worried.

"From our day-to-day count, we're on track to meeting the target," said Zolkples in Jakarta yesterday.

Sports like fencing, Zolkples said, had shown much improvement despite not having the same level of support as the 19 core sports. This is something the NSC will be looking into after the Sea Games.
   

The Pelapis (back-up) programme will also be reviewed.

"There is a strong representation from the Pelapis programme in this Sea Games.

"Though it is too soon to pressure them, some of the athletes have won silver and bronze medals and that augurs well for the future.

"However, we have our benchmarks and we'll know where they stand after the Games. We'll just finish off this Games and have a more detailed review when we get home."

As NSC prepares for that, the divers will return home as the most successful athletes after Yeoh Ken Nee and Pandelela Rinong added the men's 3m springboard and women's 10m platform gold medals to the squad's haul.

That brought their total to seven, missing out on only the men's 10m platform synchro which Malaysia did not compete in.

 The tenpin bowlers too roared as they swept the men's and women's doubles gold medals at the Jaya Ancol alley.

  Adrian Ang-Alex Liew took the men's title while Zandra Aziela Ibrahim Hakimi-Jacqueline Sijore beat Singapore for the women's gold.

   In snooker, veteran Sam Chong capped his comeback by partnering Rory Thor to the doubles gold while Siow Yi Ting successfully defended her 200m breaststroke title.

 Read more: SEA GAMES: Target achievable - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-target-achievable-1.7187#ixzz1dvgkEjLY

No Vintage Yi Ting But She Still Strikes Gold

PALEMBANG: Two women’s breaststroke titles in the bag and one more to go for a clean sweep in Palembang.

Swimmer Siow Yi Ting was not at her vintage best but she mustered enough power in her strokes to deliver the fourth gold medal for Malaysia at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre last night.

Look what I’ve got: Malaysia’s Siow Yi Ting posing with her gold after winning the women’s 100m breaststroke yesterday.

Yi Ting, who is competing for the first time after a two-year lay-off to complete her studies in the United States, splashed to victory in 2:33.67 for her second gold in as many days.

Yi Ting, who won the 100m breaststoke on Tuesday, took the lead yesterday and never looked back as her closest rival, Salubluek Chavuninooch of Thailand, had to settle for the silver in 2:35.53.

Samantha Yeo of Singapore took the bronze in 2:37.12 while the second Malaysian finalist Christina Loh was sixth in 2:39.65.

Yi Ting’s win meant the Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia (Asum) met their target of four gold medals in swimming for the Indonesia Games.

“I’m not happy with this time as I did under 2:30 in Laos. But since it is so long since I competed, I’m okay with it.

“I hope I win another gold tomorrow (today),” she said.

Yi Ting won the discipline in Laos two years ago but there is a chance for Malaysia to achieve a clean sweep in the breaststroke events with the 50m distance contested for the first time in the Games.

But it is not Yi Ting who will start as favourite but her younger team-mate Christina.

The 16-year-old Christina lines up with the fastest time in the region, having clocked 32.29 at the World Championships in Shanghai in July.

Christina has consistently dipped under the 33-second barrier and will be priming for her first SEA Games gold medal after settling for silver behind Yi Ting in the 100m breaststroke on Tuesday.

And it could be a smashing final day of competition for Malaysia as Yi Ting and Kevin Yeap will also be competing for the 200m individual medley and 1,500m freestyle titles.

Yi Ting is the defending champion in the 200m individual medley while Kevin is brimming with confidence after splashing to his first SEA Games gold medal in the 400m freestyle on Tuesday.

The men’s 4x200m freestyle relay quartet of Foo Jian Beng, Vernon Lee, Kevin and Lim Ching Hwang sprang a surprise by taking silver in 7:35.99.

Diver Ken Nee Makes Swan Song Where He First Created History

PALEMBANG: It was in Indonesia that Yeoh Ken Nee made history as the first Malaysian diver to bag a medal in diving at the Jakarta SEA Games in 1997.

Now, 14 years later, Ken Nee could not have chosen a better place to bid farewell to the Games.

He retained the men’s 3m springboard title for Malaysia at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday for his 15th SEA Games gold medal.

Ken Nee completed the six-dive discipline with 485.15 points to leave Indonesian Ahmad Jamjani trailing in his wake on 401.85.

High achievers: The Malaysian diving team rejoicing during a photo session yesterday after they won seven out of eight gold medals.

Ahmad Amsyar came back in the last two dives to secure the bronze for Malaysia with 397.30 points.

The 28-year-old Ken Nee had decided that Palembang would be his swan song.

“I think eight SEA Games is enough.

“I’m not getting any younger and it’s taxing to go through the intensity of training,

“It’s getting harder for my body to recover fast,” said Ken Nee.

“I’m glad I’ve never failed to deliver the gold medal each time I competed in the springboard.”

Ken Yee said he had seen the Filipino divers as the biggest threat yesterday as they had improved after training in China.

“But they made mistakes and that made it easier for me. I hope the next one after me will keep the gold medal in Malaysian hands,” he said.

Ken Nee made his Games debut at just 12 years old in Chiang Mai 1995 before taking the bronze in the 10m platform in Jakarta two years later.

He became the first Malaysian gold medallist in the sport in Brunei 1999.

“I will continue to dive as I have qualified for the London Olympics but I’m keen to take up a coaching role after that.

“I want to thank all my coaches as they are the ones who made me what I am today,” said Ken Nee, who has also delivered medals in the Asian and Commonwealth Games.

SEA GAMES: Triple Strike In Pool

ANOTHER GOOD SHOW: Soon Choy, Cai Lin and Yi Ting in golden performance

Malaysia capped a memorable night by winning three gold medals to silence the jeering fans at the Jakabaring Aquatic Arena yesterday.

An experienced Kevin Yeap Soon Choy finally earned his first Sea Games title on the day Khoo Cai Lin and Siow Yi Ting won their receptive events.

Soon Choy maintained Malaysia's stranglehold in the men's 400m freestyle touching in at 3:55.07, 0.88 seconds faster than Thailand silver medallist and favourite Sari Tiewong. Singapore's Kevin Matthews finished third on 3:58.48.

The 22-year-old paced himself throughout the race by taking it slowly in the first 200 metres before increasing his speed in the final half of the race, which was won by compatriot Daniel Bego at the 2009 Laos Sea Games.

Soon Choy was 20 metres behind Sari but the Malaysian managed to catch the Thai and touched ahead to win the title.

"I have finally won a Sea Games title. It feels good," said the delighted Soon Choy yesterday.

"I failed in my previous Sea Games outings as I pushed too hard in the opening half of the race before losing pace in the final 200 metres. I did it differently this time by pacing myself.

"Sari was the hot favourite but I managed to beat him today (yesterday) and to be frank, I was too focused on the race to notice anything."

Siow Yi Ting returned from a one-year study break to retain her women's 100m breaststroke title. Yi Ting was pursued closely by compatriot Christina Low Yen Ling but she surged ahead to clock the winning time of 1:10.55.

Yen Ling made a one-two for Malaysia by recording 1:10.57 while the bronze was won by Thailand's Chavuninooch Salubluek on 1:11.69.

Yi Ting and Yen Ling also surpassed the Olympic B category timing but only one would get to compete in London if neither qualify under A.

Cai Lin regained her women's 800m freestyle with 8:50.17, ahead of Thailand's Natthanan Jungkrajang (8:55.51) and Indonesia's Raina Saumi (9:02.81). She swam a near perfect as she led from start-to-finish to ease to the finish line.

Cai Lin later anchored Malaysia to a bronze in the women's 4x100m freestyle, clocking 3:55.27, behind champions Singapore (3:48.38) and Thailand (3:51.76).

Malaysia have so far won three gold and five silver and one bronze with two days of competition left.

Read more: SEA GAMES: Triple strike in pool - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-triple-strike-in-pool-1.6577#ixzz1dqLgkm9b

SEA GAMES: Sigh Of Relief

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ONE-TWO FINISH: Jun Hoong finally lands gold

Cheong Jun Hoong (right) and Wendy Ng make it a proud day for Malaysia with gold and silver respectively in the women’s 3m springboard at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

Cheong Jun Hoong was finally at peace with herself after ending Malaysia's drought in the women's 3-metre springboard individual with a near perfect performance to grab the gold medal at the Jakabaring Aquatic Centre yesterday.

Wendy Ng made it a one-two finish for Malaysia by taking the silver.

Jun Hoong was feeling the pressure, going into the event after being told that Malaysia had not won it since Leong Mun Yee's victory at the 2003 edition in Hanoi.

"I was feeling tensed and nervous over the past two days. I could not even concentrate during training. My coach (Yang Zhuliang) along with my teammates and friends had words of encouragement to calm me down," said the 21-year-old after winning her first ever Sea Games individual title yesterday.

"I must thank everyone for their support especially my coach Zhuliang, who was motivating me from the start. I was given a huge responsibility and thank God, I have fulfilled everyone's wishes."

Jun Hoong, who made her Sea Games debut in 2005 in Manila, recorded consistent scores to earn an impressive 310.70 total with compatriot Wendy posting 290.10 for second.

Indonesia's Sari Ambarwati edged former champion Sheila Mae Perez by just 2.5 points to take the bronze on 270.60. Defending champion Le Thanh Thu Hoang, on 241.45, finished sixth of the seven competitors.

Jun Hoong and Wendy were in a neck-to-neck battle for the gold after the completion of the second dive but the latter's disastrous entry in the third allowed her teammate to surge ahead.

The champion, however, admitted that Wendy's poor dive made her more nervous.

"I knew then I needed to be consistent and also avoid mistakes in my remaining attempts to stay ahead. I couldn't afford an average dive as the others became confident after Wendy failed.

"Overall, I could have done better ... to be frank I was not happy with my performance. I am still inconsistent in my jumps and entries. The only way to get better is by training harder," added Jun Hoong.

Wendy was disappointed for failing to execute a good third dive.

"I took the risk of increasing my level of difficulty and subsequently paid the price.

"I would have been the champion if not for that decision. Anyway, Jun Hoong won and I am happy that she ended Malaysia's drought," said Wendy.