Kuching Celebrates Another Victory in Aquatic Sports
KUCHING: The Para SUKMA XXI games showcased the remarkable talent of Sarawak swimmers, with Galang Jabai leading the way by clinching the gold medal in the S7 men’s 100m freestyle category on Tuesday. His outstanding performance has once again put Sarawak on the map in the world of competitive swimming.
Galang Jabai: A Champion’s Journey
Galang, who is 38 years old and nearing retirement in two years, recorded an impressive time of 1:23 in the final. Despite his age, he continues to defy expectations and demonstrate that dedication and hard work can lead to success.
A Heartfelt Dedication
During a post-race interview, Galang expressed his gratitude by dedicating his gold medal to Sarawak, his family, and his unwavering supporters. He specifically mentioned the significance of having his father present for the first time to witness his performance.
“My father is up there; this is the first time he came to watch me compete,” Galang shared emotionally. “He took a bus to be here.”
The Road to Success
Galang’s journey as an athlete is not without its challenges. As the eldest son in his family, he often embarks on a seven-hour car journey from Jula Uke to Kuching to attend training sessions. His commitment and resilience have fueled his ambition to continue excelling in the sport.
Upcoming Competitions
Looking ahead, Galang is set to compete in four more events, with hopes of adding more gold medals to Sarawak’s tally at the games. His determination to represent his state and bring home more victories remains unwavering.
Local Talent Shines
In the same event, Muhammad Syafiq Azman from Kedah took home the silver medal, while Ikmal Danial from Penang secured the bronze. Additionally, Rapelson Richard Hamit, another talented swimmer from Sarawak, finished fourth in the same category, clocking in at 2:03.91.