PAHANG KEGLER, DANIAL HAIQAL EYES GOLD IN LAST SUKMA OUTING

KUANTAN, July 21 (Bernama) -- Pahang ten-pin bowler Danial Haiqal Izwan Suhardi, 21, aspires for a gold medal in his last Malaysian Games (SUKMA) in Sarawak which will take place from August 17 to 21.

The eldest son of former national hockey player Izwan Suhardi Selamat, 50, said all preparations from the training had been streamlined in the gold hunting mission as the best record of his personal achievements.

"At SUKMA 2022 I brought home two silver medals in the individual and doubles events, this time I hope to contribute gold to the Pahang contingent.

"This Games is my last participation and that is also a catalyst to injects enthusiasm to improve the achievements compared to previous SUKMA" he said when met by Bernama during a training session here recently.

The brother of athlete Danish Haqimi, 16, who also participated in the sports games in the same event said he will redouble his efforts and focus in the training sessions held every day to realise his hopes.

As for back-up athlete Siti Nurin Najiha Syed Rohaizam, 15, said she was excited to be able to perform for the first time in the Games and hoped to be able to surprise by presenting a medal to her team.

"I feel happy to be involved with SUKMA and the remaining time before leaving for Sarawak I will focus on improving my weaknesses in the game," said the student of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tengku Panglima Perang Tengku Muhammad here.

Meanwhile, team coach Allan Chia Sen Ang said the main constraint is training duration as most of his charges are new athletes who are still in school.

"So far all the players are in good condition and we need more time for training before playing in a few weeks," said Allan , who is also a former national player.

 The 21st SUKMA saw Pahang target 40 gold medals by fielding 603 athletes who will participate in 36 events.

-- BERNAMA