KUCHING: The Power Aquatics Swimming Club (PASC) closed the curtain on an eventful year with a grand celebration, acknowledging outstanding achievements in swimming and water polo.
Political Secretary to the Premier Kho Teck Wan, representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, commended the club’s accomplishments and urged the athletes to persist in their training endeavours.
“I understand it is not easy, you (swimmers) have to juggle between time to study and train in swimming.
“However, through the club’s platform, it is also good for character building as well as talent scouting for the national and international games,” she said in her speech during the club’s 7th annual dinner here last night (Dec 30).
She also encouraged parents to continue giving their children moral and mental support in ensuring their children’s success both academically and in aquatic sports.
Meanwhile, PASC president Kapitan Tan Kun Gee highlighted the club’s historic victories and expressed gratitude to the dedicated athletes, coaches, and supportive parents.
“PASC witnessed a remarkable feat as the Sarawak Boys U16 team clinched the championship title in the 58th Milo/Malaysia Age Group Water Polo Championship.
“This achievement marked the first time in over two decades that a Sarawak junior team has secured a national championship. Additionally, the Sarawak girls’ team showcased their talent by winning the bronze medal in the Women’s Open category,” he said.
He added another accomplishment was achieved by young swimmer Sheamus Chew, who shattered the Boys Group D 50m butterfly record during the Sarawak Age Group Swimming Championship, breaking the record set by former national swimmer Olympian Daniel Bego in 2000.
“The prowess of PASC’s water polo players was also recognised, as three of their talented athletes, Sara Tham, Faustina Kow, and Casper Tan, were handpicked to represent the country in the 45th SEA Age Group Water Polo Championship, held in Jakarta, Indonesia.
“All these achievements were made possible through the dedication and hard work of our athletes and their coaches, and supportive parents,” he said.
He added the club’s commitment to fostering an environment of growth and excellence was further enhanced by the addition of coach Frederick John, a swimming coach from the Philippines.
“I would also like to call upon all members of PASC to carry forward the spirit of unity and cooperation that has come to define the club,” said Tan.
During the event, PASC achievers were honoured and rewarded for their exceptional performances.
Fifty nine recipients received the incentives for their achievement in swimming and water polo competitions throughout 2023, with an incentive given totalling at RM29,000.
