LUBOK ANTU: Two young powerlifters from Lubok Antu are seeking sponsorships to represent Malaysia in the upcoming Asian Powerlifting Championship 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Vicky Brain Minggang and Emenuel Nyawang Walter Wat, who have excelled in powerlifting despite their rural backgrounds, are now seeking sponsors to help them compete on the international stage.
Vicky Brain, 18, a diploma student in Vocational Welding Technology at Kolej Vokasional Betong, has a deep passion for sports.
Raised in Rumah Lagan Empit, Vicky balanced his studies and home responsibilities while excelling in various sports. He was named ‘Sportsman of the Year’ in 2023 for his accomplishments in track and field, sepak takraw, and football.
“Transitioning to powerlifting in late 2023, he made an immediate impact by winning gold in the U66 Men’s Sub-Junior category at the Sarawak Powerlifting Closed 2024.
“He went on to claim bronze at the SBD x Hansu National Powerlifting Championship in Subang Jaya, setting a national deadlift record at 205kg.
He continued his winning streak by securing gold and multiple state and national records at the Sarawak Powerlifting Open 2024, lifting a staggering 215kg in deadlift.
“Despite the challenges of limited access to proper facilities in his hometown, Vicky’s dedication has earned him a spot in the Malaysian team,” according to a press release made available to New Sarawak Tribune, today.
Emenuel Nyawang, also 18, hails from Rumah Panjang Titok Ulu, a longhouse accessible by gravel roads. While he was not as active in sports growing up, his work in the family’s palm oil plantation developed his strength and work ethic.
Encouraged by coach Daryl Albright, Emenuel entered the powerlifting scene in 2023, competing in the U83 Sub-Junior category. His natural strength, honed from manual labour, earned him silver at the National Powerlifting Championship, where he also set a Sarawak state deadlift record.
“Facing challenges due to his longhouse’s remote location, Emenuel improvised by setting up his own training facility, carrying 200kg of weights back home.
“Despite these hurdles, his determination to succeed has inspired others in his community, and his efforts have led to another silver medal at the Sarawak Powerlifting Open 2024,” said the press statement.
Both athletes are now gearing up for the Asian Powerlifting Championship but are in need of sponsors to cover travel and participation expenses. Their remarkable journeys from rural Sarawak to the international stage demonstrate that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
As they continue to break records and inspire others, Vicky and Emenuel hope that potential sponsors will come forward to support their dream of representing Malaysia in Tashkent.
