KUCHING, Aug 19: Sarawak’s squash team has once again demonstrated their dominance on the national stage, clinching both gold and bronze medals in the mixed doubles category at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2024. The thrilling matches, held at the national squash courts, saw Sarawak’s top talents outplaying strong competitors from other states, bringing pride to the Land of the Hornbills.
Sarawak’s Golden Triumph: Natalie Shu Eng Sim and Harith Danial Jefri
A Nail-Biting Final
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the intense three-set final between Sarawak’s duo, Natalie Shu Eng Sim and Harith Danial Jefri, and Melaka’s Andrik Lim Kai Shan and Thanusaa Uthrian. Both teams entered the court with a clear determination to win, making for a highly competitive and electrifying match.
First Set: A Strong Start for Sarawak
The first set was a close affair, with Natalie and Harith narrowly edging out their opponents with an 11-9 victory. The pair displayed excellent coordination and strategic play, which kept the spectators on the edge of their seats.
Second Set: Melaka Strikes Back
In the second set, Melaka’s Andrik and Thanusaa came back with a vengeance. The duo managed to outmaneuver the Sarawakian team, securing an 8-11 win. This unexpected turnaround heightened the tension, setting the stage for a dramatic final set.
Final Set: Sarawak Seals the Victory
The third and final set was a true test of endurance and mental strength. Both teams fought hard, but it was Sarawak’s dynamic duo who emerged victorious, winning the set 11-9 and clinching the gold medal. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for Natalie and Harith but also reinforces Sarawak’s status as a powerhouse in Malaysian squash.
Bronze Glory for Sarawak: Altamis Aqhar Sallam and Eugenia David
A Challenging Path to the Podium
Sarawak’s Altamis Aqhar Sallam A Sufian and Eugenia David also made their mark in the mixed doubles category, securing a well-deserved bronze medal. Their match against Sabah’s Tristan Andreas Muyou Angkaus and Douce Lee Ye San was another thrilling encounter that kept the audience captivated.
First Set: Sarawak Takes the Lead
The bronze medal match started strongly for Altamis and Eugenia, as they took the first set with a solid 11-6 win. Their aggressive play and quick reflexes gave them the upper hand, putting them in a strong position early on.
Second Set: A Tough Challenge
The second set saw a fierce comeback from the Sabah team, who managed to push the Sarawakian pair to their limits. Tristan and Douce displayed remarkable resilience, eventually taking the set 10-11. This equalizer set the stage for an intense final set.
Final Set: Sarawak’s Resilience Pays Off
Despite the pressure, Altamis and Eugenia regained their composure and fought back in the third set. With a renewed focus and determination, they secured an 11-6 victory, ensuring their place on the podium with a bronze medal.
Sarawak’s Success at SUKMA 2024
A Source of Pride for the State
The success of Sarawak’s squash players at SUKMA 2024 is a testament to the state’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent. These victories are not just individual achievements but also a source of pride for all Sarawakians. The athletes’ dedication and hard work have paid off, and their triumphs will undoubtedly inspire future generations of squash players from the state.
Looking Ahead
With the gold and bronze medals in the mixed doubles category, Sarawak has once again demonstrated its strength in squash. As the SUKMA 2024 games continue, all eyes will be on the Sarawak team to see what further successes they can achieve.
The state’s sporting community and fans are eagerly awaiting more thrilling performances from their athletes, hoping that these victories are just the beginning of a fruitful campaign at SUKMA 2024.