SINGAPORE, June 7 — The artistic gymnastics team presented their coach a perfect birthday gift by winning the gold medal in the team event after a 14-year lapse at the Bishan Sports Hall, here today.
Nataliya Sinkova who has been coaching the Malaysian artistic gymnastic team for the past 20 years, celebrated her 49th birthday today.
The team comprising Farah Ann Abdul Hadi, Siti Nur Bahirah Ahmad, Tracie Ang, Nur Eli Ellina Azmi, Lavinia Jayadev and Tan Ing Yueh accumulated 206.200 points to pip leading contender Singapore who collected 202.500 points through Janeesa Dai, Ashly Lau, Kelsie Muir, Nadine Nathan, Michelle Teo and Qiyan Zeng.
The Philippines represented by Rachelle Arellano, Sofia Isabel Gonzales, Elizabeth, Leduc, Ma. Christina Onofre and Ava Lorein Verdeflor collected 191.400 points to take the bronze.
The last time Malaysia won a gold medal in the event was in 2001 when Malaysia hosted the SEA Games, through Au Li Yen, Chang Swee Ting, Chang Zhi We, Nurul Fatiha Abdul Hamid and Yap Yen Yin.
Team captain Farah Ann said she and her team mates were extremely delighted to have won the gold medal by beating Singapore who were the preGames favourite, at their own backyard.
“Our target here was the gold medal but we knew the team from the host country would be the ones to beat. This is a very meaningful win and we want to dedicate this gold medal to our coach for her birthday.
“For me this is the best team ever,” she told reporters, here today.
Nataliya from Ukraine said the team had proven their ability by putting up a splendid performances to win the gold medal.
“The girls will continue their excellent performances in individual events.
They are my angels, I trust them,” said Nataliya. — Bernama
