Sarawak’s Rising Star Takes the Limelight
PETRA JAYA: The waters of the Temasya Sukan Malaysia (SUKMA) sparkled not just with the reflections of the sun, but with the extraordinary achievements of Sarawak’s newest swimming sensation, Kelly Yao Teo. The young athlete has created history with her remarkable performance, bringing home six personal gold medals, making her the highest individual gold contributor to the Sarawak contingent.
Six Gold Medals: A Testament to Dedication
Dominating the Swimming Arena
Kelly Yao’s victories were not just flukes; they were the result of relentless training and sheer determination. Competing in the swimming events, Kelly swept the gold in the following categories:
- 200m Freestyle
- 400m Individual Medley
- 200m Butterfly
- 800m Freestyle
- 400m Freestyle
- 1,500m Freestyle
Her achievements in these events have not only brought glory to Sarawak but also placed her among the top athletes in the nation.
Team Achievements: Silver and Bronze Medals
In addition to her personal successes, Kelly also contributed significantly in the team events. She won one silver and two bronze medals in the following categories:
- 4 x 200m Freestyle Relay (Silver)
- 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay (Bronze)
- 100m Breaststroke (Bronze)
These achievements further highlight her versatility and team spirit, making her a well-rounded athlete and a valuable asset to her team.
Financial Rewards: Incentives Worth RM90,000
A Well-Deserved Reward
Kelly’s hard work has paid off, not just in medals but also in financial incentives. For her six gold medals, Kelly is entitled to a substantial reward of RM90,000. Unlike team events, where rewards are shared, Kelly’s incentive is entirely hers to enjoy, reflecting her individual brilliance in the pool.
Additional Rewards for Silver and Bronze
Apart from the gold medals, Kelly also earned additional incentives for her silver and bronze medals. Although these amounts are shared with her teammates, Kelly still stands to gain close to RM100,000 in total, making her one of the highest-earning athletes in this edition of SUKMA.
Plans for the Future: A New Car and Gratitude
Celebrating Success with Loved Ones
When interviewed by reporters, Kelly Yao revealed that her initial goal was to secure three gold medals at SUKMA. However, her rigorous training schedule—six days a week—yielded results far beyond her expectations. With a smile on her face, Kelly expressed her plans to use the incentive money to purchase a car, a well-deserved reward for her hard work. She also intends to share her success with those who supported her journey, including her teammates, coaches, and family.
A Legacy in the Making: Kelly Yao’s Historic Achievement
Following in the Footsteps of Legends
This SUKMA marks Kelly Yao’s second appearance, and she has certainly left an indelible mark. In her previous SUKMA, Kelly managed to secure two gold medals, but her recent performance has solidified her status as a rising star in Malaysian swimming. Her achievements draw comparisons to Sarawak’s former swimming champion, Tania Bugo, who won 13 gold medals at SUKMA III in 1990, helping Sarawak emerge as the overall champion.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead for Sarawak’s New Queen of the Pool
Kelly Yao’s triumph at SUKMA is more than just a personal victory; it is a symbol of Sarawak’s growing prowess in sports. As she continues to train and compete, there is no doubt that Kelly will inspire the next generation of athletes to strive for excellence. With her name now etched in the annals of Sarawak’s sports history, Kelly Yao is not just a swimming queen; she is a beacon of hope and determination for the entire state.