Malaysia’s contingent at the ASEAN University Games (AUG) 2024 has surpassed all expectations by securing a total of 36 gold medals in the Karate competition last Friday.The highlight of Malaysia’s stellar performance came from Karate exponents H. Sureeya Sankar and K.Thevendran, who both clinched gold medals in their respective categories.
H. Sureeya Sankar added to Malaysia’s medal tally by securing the country’s 35th gold medal in the under 60-kilogram category. His journey to gold culminated in a dominant 9-1 victory over Thai challenger Calermpon Piwlaaiad in the final at Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA). This victory marked Sureeya’s successful defense of the gold medal he won at the 2022 AUG in Ubon Ratchathani. Despite facing challenges, including minor injuries in earlier rounds, Sureeya’s perseverance and focus propelled him to victory.
Despite facing challenges, including minor injuries in earlier rounds, Sureeya’s perseverance and focus propelled him to victory. “I’m thrilled to have won gold again this year,” Sureeya shared with Bernama.
K.Thevendran showcased remarkable talent and determination by securing Malaysia’s 36th gold medal in the men’s kumite under 55 kilograms category. Representing Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), Thevendran’s path to victory culminated in a hard-fought 4-3 win over Thailand’s Chanpet Setthapong at the Universitas Islam Malang Convention Center.
“I am delighted to contribute a gold medal to Malaysia in my first AUG appearance,” Thevendran remarked to Sinar Harian. He sees his achievement as a strong motivation for future competitions, including the upcoming Sukma Games in Sarawak 2024.
In addition to the stellar performances of Sureeya and Thevendran, Malaysia’s contingent excelled across various disciplines at the AUG 2024. The team secured five more gold medals, including victories in athletics events like the men’s and women’s 4×400 meters relay, Mohd Rizzua Haizad Muhamad’s triumph in the 110-meter hurdles, Muhammad Syafiq Zuber’s success in taekwondo, and Muhammad Firdaus Mohd Israj’s excellence in penjak silat.
Source : Sinar Harian Bernama
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