CONGRATULATIONS: Tiong hands over a prize to one of the outstanding swimmers during the closing of the championship.
SIBU: Swimmers from Sibu dominated the Sarawak Age-group Swimming Championship 2012 emerging champion in Category A with an impressive medal haul of 19 gold, 20 silver and 16 bronze. Sibu also won in Category C with their swimmers bagging 17 gold, nine silver and seven bronze medals.
Kuching took the Category D crown with 16 gold, seven silver and four bronze while Kota Samarahan took the Category B title with 31 gold, eight silver and seven bronze.
At the closing ceremony, Lanang MP Datuk Tiong Thai King reminded the participants that the real winners in sports are those who persevere, remain composed and maintain a dignified disposition whether they win or lose in the game.
“Winning should never be the sole purpose of participation in a championship,” he advised.
Tiong added that participating in sports and games would help them develop life skills such as time-management, self-discipline, goal-setting and an increased sense of self-worth.
“And, don’t forget to have fun too. You may not be the brightest star, but do enjoy the game. Think of the benefits you are gaining – new skills, new friends, and the right positive attitude,” said Tiong who is also the Sibu Municipal Council chairman.
“Swimming is widely regarded as one of the best sports discipline. Swimming builds endurance, muscle strength and cardio-vascular fitness. Perhaps, it is time for others who have not taken up swimming to take it up as a healthy hobby.”
The council currently has two swimming pools – the Delta Swimming Pool and the Bukit Lima Swimming Pool.
“The two swimming pools are meant for the Sibu Amateur Swimming Association to train swimmers under a well-managed and regulated environment,” he enthused.
He assured the association of the council’s full support in promoting swimming and towards the development of the sport.