Train Happy.

I started swimming competitively in 1999 and I was an instant success, winning medals both locally and regionally. At the inaugural ASEAN Para Games in 2001, I smashed the then world record in the 50m backstroke. But leading up to the Paralympics in Athens, the training intensified. I spent so much time in the pool that I never got to see my friends. There was also the heavy workload from school. Piling on to that was the pressure I put on myself. I felt miserable and the results showed – 5th in the 100m freestyle. I almost wanted to quit but the encouragement from my parents and loved ones kept me going. With some soul searching, I also realised that I love swimming too much to give it up. I knew something had to change, so I started with the one thing within my control – my mindset. I told myself that almost all the happy moments in my life were associated with swimming. This helped me to see training in a brand new light; the happier I am, the faster I swim.

Be happy in everything you choose to do. This is my mantra.

Happiness.

This is the Singapore Spirit I’m taking to the Games!