Big Breakthrough

Photo by Getty Images for Singapore Sports Council
By Kelly Ng in Palembang 

Sometimes, for Team Singapore athletes, it’s not a matter of gold, silver or bronze. It’s more the satisfaction of having made a breakthrough, as we find out from speaking to swimmer Shana Lim and shot putter Wan Lay Chi who won SEA Games gold and silver respectively on Monday (Nov 14). 

Shana Lim (Swimming) 

Shana, who won the women’s 50m back in 29.37s, was glad to finally secure an individual win at this level .“I have never gotten myself an individual gold. Knowing that I am not sharing it with three other people - this is what makes this medal extra special for me,” she said. “This is going to be one of the races I am going to remember. It’s great to get my own gold after three SEA Games,” said the youngster who has been a reliable team member in the 4x100m medley relay for the past few years. 

Wan Lay Chi (Track & Field) 

After missing out on a medal at the last SEA Games, Lay Chi was feeling on top of the world after she won silver in the women’s shot put. “I feel great. I don’t know what else to say. I just feel great,” she said. Afterall, this was a big break for her. Asked what went through her mind during the throws, she said, “I felt quite nervous initially. The competitors were very strong. But I got excited as the contest went on.” Her confidence was boosted after a good second throw. She then went on to achieve a personal best of 14.59m.