SELANGOR: Sarawak’s rhythmic gymnasts are not only showcasing their skills on the floor, but also carrying a piece of their homeland with them through their striking competition leotards.
The outfits feature Sarawak’s signature red, black and yellow colours, with a prominent rhinoceros hornbill motif across the front, reflecting the state’s identity as the ‘Land of the Hornbills’.
A yellow starburst motif, together with shimmering rhinestones and crystals around the neckline and upper mesh panels, adds to the visual appeal of the competition attire.
The distinctive designs provided the young gymnasts with another way to proudly represent Sarawak as they took to the floor in the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) rhythmic gymnastics competition.
This time, however, the team had more than just a medal target in mind — they were determined to make amends for the disappointment they experienced in the team event at the 2024 SUKMA.
Sarawak Amateur Gymnastics Association’s (SAGYMA) President, Johnny Tan Seng Hock, congratulated Nichelle Kung Tze Xuan, Eliza Toh Ryui Ya, Clarissa Makena Ambok Joseph Chaong and Shirley Chia Xin Shuen after they combined for 170.950 points to secure bronze in the women’s team event on Friday (Aug. 14).
The achievement ended Sarawak’s 20-year wait for a medal in the SUKMA rhythmic gymnastics team event, with Tan describing it as a particularly meaningful moment for the sport in the state.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC) and Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS) for their continued support, while thanking team manager, Salfa Kamazura, and State Head Coach for Rhythmic Gymnastics, Angelina Zorina, for their dedication in preparing the athletes.
Tan also praised the gymnasts for their hard work, discipline and perseverance, while acknowledging the SAGYMA executive committee and the athletes’ parents for their sacrifices and unwavering support.
“This is not just a medal. This is proof that effort, unity, discipline and fighting spirit can bring us to achieve something extraordinary,” Tan told Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
The bronze was also Sarawak’s first medal at this year’s SUKMA, adding further significance to the achievement.
