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."

49th MILO/PRAM National Age Group Diving and Synchronized Swimming Championship 2013

Date :	12 – 14 April 2013
Venue:	Paroi Aquatic Center, Negeri Sembilan

1.	Gan Hua Wei	2 Olympic (NS Synchro)
2.	Lee Yiat Lum	2 Olympic (KL Synchro)
3.	Muhammad Danial Sabri	4 Asian (KL Diving)
4.	Muhammad Nazreen Abdullah	4 SEA (KL Diving)
5.	Nur Dhabitah Sabri	2 Olympic (KL Diving)
6.	Adeline Chin Wei Ling	2 Olympic (Sel Diving)
7.	Ng Zheng Ni	1 Olympic (Sel Diving)

  Diving  / Synchro

Double Duty In Barcelona

PETALING JAYA: Malaysian long distance swimmers Kevin Yeap and Khoo Cai Lin are set for double duty at the World Championships in Barcelona next July after winning a second quota spot for their respective pet events at the Asian Swimming Championships in Dubai.

Kevin finished fifth in the men’s 1,500m freestyle final in 15:40.87 on Saturday to dip under the world championship qualifying mark of 15:46.38.

It was a satisfactory end to his campaign as he only finished behind two Japanese and two Chinese swimmers in a top class list spearheaded by double Olympic champion Sun Yang.

Sun Yang, who trains in Australia, splashed to his third gold and a third championship record with a time of 14:44.10 in the longest race of the programme.

But it was well below his world record of 14:31.02, which he set at the London Olympics this year.

Kevin, the gold medallist at the Indonesia SEA Games last year, beat the qualifying time for the 400m freestyle in finishing fourth on Friday.

Cai Lin did not post a fast time in the women’s 400m freestyle final but her 4:17.88 gave her fifth placing and beat the world meet qualifying time of 4:18.55.

It was enough for her to book a second quota spot after achieving her first in the 800m freestyle at the London Olympics.

Xu Danlu led a Chinese sweep of the gold and silver with a new championship record of 4:05.75 ahead of compatriot Shao Yiwen (4:10.98).

Thailand’s Natthanan Junkrajang touched home ahead of Japan’s Tsuzumi Hasegawa to grab the bronze in 4:14.59.

The Dubai meet is a designated continental qualifying event for the World Championships and breaststroker Yap See Tuan was the only one of the three Malaysians to miss the mark.

See Tuan managed to reach the men’s 200m breaststroke final but finished seventh in 2:18.21.

He had been eighth in the 100m breaststroke in 1:04.48.

The Asian meet is held every four years and the synchro swimming competition ends today. Malaysia’s Lee sisters, Zyanne and Zylane, are currently placed fifth after the free duet discipline (73.690).

Olympic bronze medallists China lead with 94.040 points and second placed Japan (91.510) will find it hard to unseat their arch rivals unless they produce an exceptional performance in the technical discipline.

Katrina Baca Lebih 1,000 Buku

Oleh ZAZALI JAMIAN
sukan@utusan.com.my

KATRINA Ann Abdul Hadi menunjukkan koleksi pingat yang dimenanginya dan keluarga.

SELEPAS meraih emas Sukan SEA XXVI bulan lalu dalam acara renang berirama nama Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi sering menjadi bualan peminat sukan tanah air.

Malah ada juga yang kagum dengan pencapaian diraih atlet tersebut bersama pasangannya, Shareen Hui hingga mampu membuka mata negara-negara luar terhadap sukan renang berirama Malaysia.

Barangkali tidak ramai mengetahui atlet yang ramah dan murah dengan senyuman itu pernah aktif dalam gimnastik dan olahraga (acara pecut), sebelum bergelar ratu renang berirama.

Namun, dalam semua sukan tersebut renang berirama tetap menjadi sukan kesayangannya, selain menganggap acara yang disertai bukan semudah yang dilihat.

Memiliki perwatakan yang ceria Katrina, 19, bukanlah individu yang gemar menghabiskan masa dengan aktiviti tidak berfaedah, sebaliknya setiap masa lapangnya adalah dengan mentelaah buku-buku pengetahuan atau novel yang bertemakan fiksyen.

Menghabiskan buku yang mempunyai jumlah lebih 1,000 muka surat dalam masa sehari bukan sesuatu yang janggal buat Katrina kerana membaca dalam jumlah muka surat yang tebal sudah menjadi kebiasaan buatnya sejak kecil.

"Ketika latihan juga saya akan membawa buku untuk dibaca dan kawan-kawan juga dah biasa dengan cara saya ini.

"Membaca adalah sesuatu yang memberikan kepuasan kepada saya tambahan pula bila dapat membaca sambil berbaring.

"Memang banyak masa saya adalah dengan membaca buku terutama buku-buku fiksyen. Semuanya saya akan baca dan habiskan dalam sehari jika tiada gangguan.

"Jika nak dikira sejak di bangku sekolah rendah hingga kini saya telah membaca lebih 1,000 buku dan saya memang suka membaca," kata Katrina.

Kata Katrina, nikmat membaca buku akan bertambah apabila berupaya menggambarkan situasi yang tertulis dalam setiap muka surat, sekali gus membuatkan keinginan untuk terus mengetahui penamat sesuatu bahan bacaan tersebut.

"Ketika di sekolah rendah dahulu ada Program Bacaan Nilam dan saya sering menerima anugerah melalui program tersebut kerana terlalu banyak membaca sehingga tiada ruang untuk mengisi buku laporan yang disediakan.

"Di rumah saya ada koleksi buku yang amat banyak dan di situ ada beberapa buku yang saya minat kerana mempunyai jalan cerita menarik," kata Katrina.

Bagi yang minat membaca buku fiksyen yang telah diadaptasikan ke filem Katrina ada pesanan buat anda.

"Kalau mahu baca buku-buku sebegini seeloknya tengok dahulu filem tersebut dan kemudian baru baca buku tersebut kerana kepuasan akan lebih dirasai bila berbuat demikian," jelas Katrina.

Pada tahun depan kejohanan yang bakal menjadi tumpuannya adalah Kejohanan Kelayakan Sukan Olimpik 2012 yang dijangka berlangsung pada April ini.

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: How Mandarin Helped Katrina Become A Wwinner

Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi couldn't understand a word of Mandarin when she first joined the national synchronised swimming team but soon realised the language was an integral part of daily training if she wanted to improve her skills in the sport.

Malaysians who won the Free Routine Team event with their gold medals.

 The 19-year-old was absorbed into the national team six years ago but found it tough at first under China-born coach Long Yan, who spoke only Mandarin.

And Katrina Ann felt then it was important to pick up a few words of the language to better understand instructions of her coach.

After several years in the national squad, Katrina Ann, a student of Sunway College, is now fluent in Mandarin and sometimes acts as Long Yan's translator.

"I knew I needed to pick up the language in order to excel in this sport. However, I managed to get the hang of Mandarin by practising with my teammates," said Katrina Ann, a former state sprinter and gymnast, yesterday.

"It is one of the best decisions in my life ... Mandarin has made me a better synchronised swimmer."

Katrina was equally talented in athletics, and she became the Selangor state Under-12 100m and 200m champion and also a state gymnast.

She, however, chose synchronised swimming at 13 after she was told to pick one sport by her parents.

"I was equally good in all three but couldn't continue with them and was told to specialise in just one. I chose synchronised swimming and I am glad I did," she said.

Katrina Ann yet again dominated proceedings on the second day of synchronised swimming in Palembang yesterday by lifting the free routine duet and team titles to take her tally to four gold medals. She will continue her campaign in today's team combination.

Read more: SEA GAMES: How Mandarin helped Katrina become a winner - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-how-mandarin-helped-katrina-become-a-winner-1.8844#ixzz1eJSOD4IP

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

Mandarin-speaking Katrina Feels Right At Home

PALEMBANG: Good communication, they say, is the key to success. And for top Malaysian synchronised swimmer Katrina Ann Hadi, that’s the least of her problems.

Don’t be surprised to hear her conversing in fluent Mandarin.

The 19-year-old Katrina, who is of mixed Malay and Western parentage, has been picking up Mandarin since joining the national team six years ago.

“The whole team speaks Mandarin and our coach (Long Yan) is from China. So, if I didn’t learn it I would have had a hard time communicating with the rest of the team,” said Katrina.

In sync: Katrina Ann Hadi (front) and Shareen Png en route to winning the gold in the free duet yesterday.

“At first it was hard because I didn’t attend any classes and I just learnt it from the other members. Now, I’m comfortable speaking in Mandarin.”

On Saturday, Katrina combined excellently with Shareen Png to deliver the first gold medal for synchronised swimming in the technical duet event.

Yesterday, Katrina again showed good understanding with the rest of the team to help Malaysia to another two more gold medals in the free duet and team routines.

“Their level has always been higher than the other nations in the SEA region and it was just up to them to deliver their best performance,” said Long Yan.

With such good understanding, it is no wonder that Malaysia have dominated the synchronised swimming events so far.

Mandy’s Decision To Return To Pool Pays Dividends

PALEMBANG: Two years ago Mandy Yeap decided to quit synchronised swimming to concentrate on her studies.

However, she changed her mind after finding out that the sport will be held in this Games and returned to the national team after receiving a call-up earlier this year.

And the 22-year-old Mandy, who grew up watching synchronised swimming in the Olympics, certainly does not regret her decision after tasting success here.

On Saturday, Penangite Mandy earned her first gold medal in the team technical routine.

Pretty maids all in a row: Malaysian synchronised swimmers proudly showing off their gold medals in Palembang yesterday.

Yesterday, despite speculations that a gold medal would be given to the hosts, Mandy and Co danced and bedazzled their way to yet another gold medal in the team free routine event.

Performing to a mash-up of the theme song from the movie “Blessed”, the Malaysian girls were simply a class above the rest as they scored 75.825 points to take gold, Malaysia’s fourth in synchronised swimming.

Even knowing that they’ll be performing as the fourth team just before the Indonesian team – did not faze them one bit as they stunned the boisterous crowd with a sizzling performance.

Indonesia took silver with 73.925, much to the disappointment of the crowd, while Thailand took bronze with 72.113.

“The win really feels great and it’s a dream come true for me because I loved watching the synchronised swimmers in the Olympics on television. This time I’m the one on TV,” said an excited Mandy.

“We’re actually a little surprised at the result because it’s a subjective sport and Indonesia, as hosts, generally have the advantage.

“We also did not expect the stadium to be so packed because synchronised swimming is not that popular, but we just went out there and did our best.

“We heard the jeers from the crowd as well but our coach told us to just focus and turn the boos into cheers in our head and that’s what we did,” added Mandy, who has been involved in the sport for 10 years now.

Meanwhile, the victory was also exceptionally sweet for 16-year-old Tasha Jane, who did not compete in the team technical routine on Saturday.

“I was really nervous as this was only my second time competing in such a packed stadium (the first being at the World Championships), but I’m glad I did okay and the winning feeling is really awesome,” enthused Tasha, who also hails from Penang.

It was another fruitful day for Malaysia in synchronised swimming, with Katrina Ann Hadi and Shareen Png dominating the field in the free routine duet earlier.

Mandy, Tasha and the rest of the team will compete in one last event today – the team combination.

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.



Read more: SEA GAMES: Party at the pool - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/sea-games-party-at-the-pool-1.8391#ixzz1eDtEkSuy

Katrina Eyes Golden Outing As Synchro Returns After 10 years

PUTRAJAYA: Synchronised swimming is making a comeback to the SEA Games after an absence of 10 years and Katrina Ann Hadi is hoping to make the best of it.

The event was last held in the 2001 Games in KL where Malaysia swept all five gold medals in contention.

The 19-year-old Katrina, who emerged as the best in the country following a fifth place finish in the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi last year, won gold at the Sukma in Malacca earlier this year.

Invaluable experience: Katrina Ann Hadi (right) and Shareen Png competing at the World Championships in Shanghai in July.

She was also part of the team that competed in the World Cham­pionships in Shanghai in July. Although Malaysia only finished 20th, their performance was the best of the region and that augurs well for the SEA Games challenge in Palembang.

“It means a lot to us that synchronised swimming is finally back in the Games. We intend to make full use of this opportunity,” said Katrina.

“The team have not had any competitions since Shanghai and although we only came in 20th, we managed to do better than our SEA rivals.

“We have been training hard, especially over the last month, and are targeting at least two gold medals of the five at stake.

“Personally, I feel that we have what it takes to win gold. However, as a subjective sport, Indonesia will have the advantage,” said Katrina, who will compete in all five events - the team combination, technical and free routines and the technical and free duet.

The other swimmers in the team are Shareen Png, Zylane Lee, Yeo Pei Ling, Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap, Tasha Jane, Gan Zhen Yu, Emanuelle Mah and Lee Yhing Huey.

They are training at the National Aquatic Centre and will depart for Palembang on Nov 15.

Full Team For Shanghai

SHAREEN Png and Xyanne Lee will lead the nine-woman national synchronised team at the World Aquatics Championships in Shanghai on July 16-31.

The swimmers are using the championships to gauge themselves for November's Sea Games in Indonesia.

Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia (ASUM) secretary Edwin Chong said they will compete in the solo, duet and team disciplines in Shanghai.

"This is the first time we are sending an entire synchro team to the world meet. It will be the swimmers' first international competition of the year," said Edwin.

"We want to see where our swimmers stand among the world's best, especially with the Sea Games coming."

Synchronised swimming will make a return as a medal sport at the Sea Games after a decade-long absence, where five gold medals will be on offer in Palembang.

"Our swimmers are competing in Shanghai for exposure. Only Shareen and Xyanne have world meet experience with them while others are debutantes.

"We were supposed to send them for the Japan Open in April but cancelled it due to the earthquake and tsunami," added Edwin.

Others in the squad are Lee Yhing Huey, Emanuelle Mah Thil Da, Katrina Ann, Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap, Yeo Pei Ling and reserve Tasha Jane.

Emanuelle, a two-gold medal winner at last month's Malaysia Games, hopes to make an impact in Shanghai.

"The world meet will be my second overseas event after last year's Japan Open. I will only compete in the team event in Shanghai," she said.

The synchronised competition at the World Championships is not an Olympic qualification event.

Read more: Full team for Shanghai http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/mkelm_e/Article/index_html#ixzz1RCvlE800

Emanuelle Has Everything In Sync For Big Stage

PETALING JAYA: Penang lass Emanuelle Mah is set for the big time when she represents Malaysia in synchronized swimming at the World Aquatics Championships in Shanghai from July 16-31.

The 16-year-old Emanuelle is among the nine swimmers who got the nod for synchronized swimming at the world meet which will be held from July 17-23.

It will be the first time Malaysia will send a team and the others going are Katrina Ann Hadi, Lee Yhing Huey, Xyanne Lee, Tan May Mei, Mandy Yeap, Yeo Pei Ling and Shareen Png while Tasha Jane will be the reserve.

Emanuelle Mah

Emanuelle said she did not know how to swim initially when she went to check out a recruitment camp back in her home state.

“I went there and found out it was for synchronized swimming, so that’s how I got here today.

“I tasted early success at the Penang Games in 2005 with a gold medal in the routine event,” said Emanuelle, who scored seven As in her PMR exams. A dance lover, Emanuelle rejoined the Bukit Jalil training programme this year, and is looking forward to making her world championships debut.

“This is the first time I am taking part in the world championships. I went for the Japan Open last year but this will be the biggest stage for me.

“I will be out to give my best as I hope to make the squad for the SEA Games in November,” she said.

The synchronized swimming team at Bukit Jalil trains under Chinese coach Long Yan and Amateur Swimming Union of Malaysia secretary Edwin Chong said the stint will be a good preparation for the SEA Games in Palembang.

“They were supposed to go for the Japan Open in April but it was cancelled due to the tsunami, so we are sending them to world championships.

“The last time we competed in the team discipline on the international level was at the Doha Asian Games in 2006, so we want to see where we stand especially with synchronized swimming back in the SEA Games programme. We will be fighting for the gold medal in the Games,” said Edwin.

Malaysia made a clean sweep when synchronized swimming was last contested at the 2001 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games.

There will be five gold medals up for grabs in synchronized swimming at Palembang.