KUCHING: Sarawak’s para-athletes are ready to make their mark at the upcoming Para SUKMA Malaysia Games XXI.
The team, a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, has been training since last year under the guidance of head coach Matthew Chin.
“We have a strong contingent of athletes, including 15 intermediate competitors, at least 20 elite athletes, and a number of newcomers,” Chin told reporters during a recent training session at Sarawak Stadium.
While the team aims to win 30 gold medals at the Games, Chin also noted that track events remain a key focus.
Sarawak is determined to reclaim the overall championship title lost to Sabah in the previous edition.
Chin acknowledged Sabah’s strength in athletics and swimming but expressed confidence in Sarawak’s chances due to the increased number of events being contested this year.
“Even though we have more events, Sabah remains our main competitor,” he said.
“But Sarawak has a significant advantage with 10 sports on the programme, and we believe we can win gold in at least nine of them.”
With the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, offering a RM15,000 incentive for gold medalists, Chin hoped to motivate athletes to deliver their best performances and secure the overall championship.
