So Close In Rio

Two gold medal points, that was how close we were to getting our first ever Olympic gold medal. Not fancied to make the men's doubles badminton final, Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong really played their hearts out throughout the tournament. 

The final was a pressure-filled affair which went to three games. Malaysians collectively held our breath when the boys took turns to serve during the two match points. It was not meant to be. Nevertheless, they did us proud by putting their best foot forward. The experience gained in Rio will certainly serve them well in time to come. 

A silver medal is an incredible achievement at the Olympic level. Well done V Shem and Wee Kiong! May the future hold much success. 

Tan Wee Kiong and Goh V Shem in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Another Historic Silver

Goh Liu Ying and Chan Peng Soon won a historic silver for the country in the mixed doubles in badminton at Rio2016. Although the entire country was hoping for gold, the display by the pair throughout the tournament is something to be proud of. 

Coming back from injury and beating pairs ranked much higher than them, Liu Ying and Peng Soon certainly brought much excitement to fans back home who were cheering them on. Winning silver when no one expected them to is very much the icing on the cake.

Here's to greater achievements in the future.

Silver medallists at Rio2016. 

Historic Cycling Medal

Azizulhasni Awang became the first Malaysian cyclist to win a medal at the Olympics, capturing bronze in the men's Keirin at Rio2016. It is wonderful to see the strides taken by some of our athletes on the world stage, fulfilling their aspirations and bringing honour to the country at the same time. 

Doing well at the international stage, in particular at the Olympics, generates immense national pride that brings all of us together in celebration. 

Thank you Azizulhasni for bringing us such joy with your performance.

Bronze in Rio2016.

Silver in Rio2016

Pandelela and Jun Hoong earned Malaysia's first medal at Rio2016 and the entire country swelled with pride at their achievement. To see how the country's diving squad has evolved and improved over the years is a testament to the long-term planning and vision of those overseeing the sport. To be on the Olympic podium is a great achievement indeed.

It is during times of such success that the sense of pride and harmony in the country truly comes to the fore, bringing all of us together as one. As the rest of the Malaysian contingent continue to do battle in their respective sporting disciplines in Rio, we will be cheering them on in spirit. 

Malaysia Boleh!

Silver medallists in the women's 10m platform diving.

Olympic Park In Beijing

With the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics coming up next month, it seems appro-priate to have visited the Olympic Park in Beijing a couple of weeks back. 

I remember vividly watching the 2008 Olympic Games, awed by the stunning images of the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, venues in which the best in the world showed off their athletic prowess and revelled in their performances after much training and sacrifice. To see these architectural feats in person is indeed an experience that I am grateful for. 

When upfront with these innovative structures, one gets a sense of inspiration. Inspiration to move forward with faith and hope, embracing the challenges and rewards that life has to offer. Indeed, I see such inspiration as a catalyst to work towards greater things in life.

Trying to run at the Olympic Park in Beijing, China.