SEREMBAN, July 18 (Bernama) -- Winning two gold medals at the ASEAN University Games (AUG) 2024 last month has positioned petanque athlete Nur Asyikin Roslan to secure gold medals for the Negeri Sembilan contingent at the 2024 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Sarawak next month.
The 20-year-old athlete said that her international experience will be instrumental in aiding the state’s petanque team in achieving success at SUKMA.
Having previously secured golds in the women’s shooting and singles events at SUKMA two years ago, she is determined to conclude her final SUKMA appearance with further accomplishments.
“I have been involved in this sport since I was 14 years old. This SUKMA will mark my third and last appearance, so I am fully committed to supporting the team and the contingent,” she told Bernama.
On June 29, Nur Asyikin, along with teammates Sharifah Afiqah Farzana Syed Ali and Mohamad Muqri Mohamad Sapiny, clinched the gold medal for the Malaysian contingent in AUG 2024 by defeating Thailand in the final match of the mixed triple event at the Petanque Court of Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA), Indonesia.
Commenting on the challenge of the upcoming SUKMA, Nur Asyikin mentioned that the Negeri Sembilan petanque squad expects strong competition from teams like Terengganu, known for their own strengths in the sport.
Under the guidance of former national petanque athlete Nurashimah Senin as her coach, Nur Asyikin also anticipates tough competition from Terengganu's Sharifah Afiqah in Sarawak.
“While Negeri Sembilan and Terengganu have a strong history in this sport, the home team will undoubtedly provide fierce competition,” she said.
Meanwhile, the men's petanque team from the state is also optimistic about securing a gold medal in the team event. The team includes Muhammad Najmi Fitri Mohd Shaharin, Muhammad Hazmi Syazwan, Muhammad Irfan Hakimi Nazri, Syahin Muhaimin Mohd Azmi, Ahmad Azim Azwan Hashim Fahmi, Muhammad Aiman Akmal Zainuddin and Muhammad Ammarshaqil Izwan Irvan Shah.
Muhammad Najmi, 21, said that he is better prepared for his second appearance, focusing on both physical and mental aspects, and expressing confidence in the team's capabilities.
“During my first appearance, nerves played a role, and in petanque, concentration is crucial. This time, we are better prepared and ready to compete fiercely,” he added.
As many as 13 gold medals are up for grabs in Petanque at the upcoming SUKMA, scheduled to be held at the State Petanque Court in Santubong, from Aug 17 to 24.
-- BERNAMA
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