PARA SUKMA 2024 IS SARAWAK POWERLIFTER FUAD'S SWANSONG
KUCHING, Sept 27 (Bernama) -- The 2024 Malaysia Para Games (Para SUKMA) will be Sarawak powerlifter Mohamad Fuad Alen's swansong after three decades of involvement in sports, including swimming and athletics.
The 45-year-old, of Kampung Paya Mebi, Kuching, made sure of going out with a bang when he bagged two gold medals in the below 59-kilogramme (kg) category, with a 108kg best lift and 313kg total lift (100kg, 105kg and 108kg).
"I should be happy after winning the two gold medals but the feeling of sadness is more overwhelming because today is the last time I will be taking part in any powerlifting competitions due to my age.
"It's time for me to go and let the backup athletes show their prowess. Although there are team managers who have offered me the chance to be their assistant, I have rejected them as I intend to focus on my job at the Padawan Municipal Council,” he said.
Earlier, Pahang's Muhammad Ali Saifuddin Ghazali settled for silver in both the best lift (102kg) and total lift (196kg) categories, with Johor's Muhammad Bukhari Md Zan taking bronze in both categories as well (100kg; 188kg).
Fuad, meanwhile, said his decision to call it a day does not mean he will stop supporting the Sarawak team at the Para SUKMA.
He said that in his 30-year career as a powerlifter since he was 15, he has amassed the most number of medals from the sport.
"The most unforgettable moment for me was when I competed in swimming, although I did not win many medals. Then, when powerlifting was introduced, I was hooked on it and stayed in it until today.
"I want to thank my parents, my team, coaches and the people of Sarawak for always keeping me in their prayers and supporting me,” said Fuad, who also thanked the backing he received from his employers.
Fuad's two-gold achievement today saw Sarawak end the powerlifting competition in first place with 14 golds, one silver and three bronzes.
-- BERNAMA
