WITH Sukma (Malaysia Games) just around the corner, many teams and athletes from the Penang contingent are now in the final lap of preparation with the hope of putting up creditable performances.
One of them is the shooting (air rifle) team.
The 20th Sukma will be held in Kuala Lumpur from Sept 16 to 24.
State shooting (air rifle) coach Faizah Abdul Aziz said the air rifle team is now ready to do its best come what may.
“Our team will be a combination of senior and junior shooters. So far, our preparations have been going on smoothly.
“Although we don’t have any specific target for medals, I believe these young guns have what it takes to do well.
“We are working hard to get something from the upcoming Sukma. That is our promise,” Faizah told Buletin Mutiara during an interview session recently at the Penang Rifle Club (PRC) in Jalan Kebun Bunga, which is adjacent to the Botanic Gardens.
Promising shooter Nur Maisarah Dzulkifli, 16, said she is very excited to be making her debut in Sukma.
“I am mentally and physically prepared. I know that some of the opponents are very experienced and are in a class of their own, but I believe in my ability too.
“I will not give up easily and will push myself to the limit to make the state proud,” she said.
As for Nur Sumayyah Dzulkifli, 18, who is also a first-timer in Sukma, she said she did not feel any pressure.
“I intend to break my own personal best record. If I can get a medal, it will be a bonus.
“Coach Faizah also is very supportive and always gives me some advice on how to improve my technique, posture and skills.
“I look forward to gaining new and valuable experiences as well,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting