Singapore’s sailing team has emerged as a dominant force at the 19th Asian Games, showcasing their exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship on the waters of Ningbo, China where all the sailing events of the Asian Games was held. The Singapore Sailing Team has clinched an impressive seven medals out of ten events, marking a historic achievement for the nation in the Asian Games post Covid era..
The highlight of this remarkable showing was by the young debutants, Isaac Goh, Max Maeder and Keira Carlyle. Senior and veteran sailors like Ryan Lo, Denise Lim, Justin Liu, Victoria Chan, Kimberly Lim and Cecilia Low returned to the games only to ensure they don’t come home empty handed.
The profile of our sailors spans from a secondary school student to a happily married couple which prove that any ordinary Singaporean can achieve their sporting goals. Their achievement shows that with a balance life of daily commitments and dedication and hard work to their sporting dreams, anything is possible. Fact of the matter was that they never gave up.
The 19th Asian Games, hosted in a spirit of unity and athleticism, witnessed the most talented sailors from across the Asian continent competing in various disciplines. Singapore’s sailors demonstrated their prowess in the sport, proving once again that they are a formidable presence on the international stage.
The medal tally for Singapore Sailors at the 19th Asian Games includes:
Gold Medal: Mens ILCA 7 – Presented to Ryan Lo
Gold Medal: IKA Mens Formula Kite – Presented to Max Maeder
Silver Medal: Mixed Nacra 17 – Presented to Justin Liu and Denise Lim
Silver Medal: Boys ILCA 4 – Presented to Isaac Goh
Bronze Medal: 49er FX Class – Presented to Kimberly Lim and Cecilia Low
Bronze Medal: Womens ILCA 6 – Presented to Victoria Chan
Bronze Medal: Girls ILCA 4 – Presented to Keira Marie Carlyle
Our IQ Foilers, Elkan Oh and Marsha Shahrin managed to improve their personal record and gained immense experience from the games by achieving the 6th and 4th position respectively. Haunted by a recurring shoulder injury, Koh Yinian who helmed the 49er class with crew Tan Jen-E kept their spirits high even though clinching the 6th spot.
Dr. Lincoln Chee, President of the Singapore Sailing Federation, expressed his delight at the sailors’ accomplishments, saying, “Our sailors’ outstanding performance at the 19th Asian Games is a credit to themselves, families, coaches and to Singapore. As a small island to be among the top three Asian Sailing Nations is an achievement we can be proud of. We appreciate the support of SportsSG, financial sponsors and all stakeholders who entrust Singapore Sailing Federation with our pathway to develop every sailor’s full potential.”
The outstanding efforts by both the debutants and veterans is a testament to their hard work and perseverance. They have progressed and matured through time only to get better especially in dealing with pressure and challenges of major games. Regardless of the outcome from local, regional, or non-Olympic international events that the sailors compete, Singapore Sailing is committed to continue nurturing their young talents and supporting the senior sailors. All hands on deck to ensure that Singapore remains a force to be reckoned with in the sport of sailing.
Chung Pei Ming, Head of High Performance and Coaches added that…”the Singapore Sailors’ journey to success was filled with dedication and teamwork. Whether winning a medal or not, each sailor who represented Singapore in this Asian Games have given their best. They trained relentlessly to prepare for the Asian Games, and their unwavering spirit and passion for the sport. I hope their achievement is an inspiration to our new generation of sailors in Singapore”.
The Singapore Sailing Federation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the supporters, sponsors, parents and partners who have been instrumental in the sailors’ journey to glory. Together, they have demonstrated the power of teamwork and collaboration in achieving greatness.
As the nation celebrates this historic achievement, Singapore looks forward to the continued success of its sailors on the international stage. The 19th Asian Games have not only showcased their talent but also solidified their place as ambassadors of the sport and Singaporean pride.