SELANGOR: Nerves were not keeping 12-year-old Joseline Jong Shi Ying awake ahead of her Para SUKMA debut – excitement was.
The youngster from Miri recalled barely getting any sleep before her flight to Selangor, saying she was simply too excited about making her first appearance at the Games.
Competing in the S14 category, which is for para swimmers with intellectual impairments, Joseline is among the younger athletes at the Games and is embracing the opportunity to compete alongside more experienced competitors.
A pupil of SK Pendidikan Khas Miri, Joseline said she was not setting any medal target for her debut and would instead focus on enjoying the experience.
“I will just enjoy the experience,” she said with a laugh when asked about her target for the Games.
Despite admitting to feeling nervous, Joseline said she would give her best when she competes.
“I will do my best and give my all for Sarawak,” she told Sarawak Tribune when met recently.
For Joseline, her first Para SUKMA is less about expectations and more about enjoying the experience of competing on a bigger stage.
And judging by the excitement she showed even before arriving in Selangor, the 12-year-old is already making the most of her Games debut.
