BANGKOK: Sarawak’s Grace Wong Xiu Mei smashed the national and SEA Games hammer throw records three times on her way to securing a fourth consecutive SEA Games gold medal.
The 25-year-old from Sarikei, who previously won gold in Kuala Lumpur 2017 (59.24m), Hanoi 2021 (57.13m), and Phnom Penh 2023 (61.87m), delivered a stunning series of throws at the Suphachalasai National Stadium here, today.
She recorded 63.83m, 65.09m, and finally 65.41m – each surpassing her own previous national record.
Grace Wong admitted the results exceeded her expectations, especially as her training throws had only been just over 60 metres.
“Before coming here, I honestly hoped for just a silver.
“I knew my training condition, and the Thai athlete had already thrown past 64 this year. She trains in Japan, and I was only hitting just over 60 metres in China,” she said.
Finishing behind Wong were Thailand’s Koomphon Mingkamon with 60.74m and Kaewasuksi Sawitree with 56.27m.
Despite her modest expectations, Wong opened strongly and improved with each attempt. She credited the supportive atmosphere in the stadium and the sea of Malaysian flags for boosting her performance.
“Before the competition, I felt my body was in good condition. I saw many Malaysian flags and felt very motivated. I told myself I must do well — I didn’t want to disappoint Malaysia.”
Now a four-time SEA Games champion and ranked among Asia’s top three in the event, Wong has her sights set on an even bigger stage.
She aims to break the 68-metre mark needed to challenge Asia’s best at the upcoming Asian Games.
“I think I can get it by the Asian Games. Maybe next year, I can fight for it,” she said.
Grace Wong plans to return to China for further training after a short break, with her ultimate goal being to reach the podium at the Asian Games next year.
“My goal is to reach the podium next year. First, second, or even third — that is my target,” she added.
