THE CHAMPIONS

WORLD SQUASH CHAMPION DATUK NICOL DAVID

Since retiring from competitive squash in 2019, Datuk Nicol Ann David has been busy training the next generation of talents through the Nicol David Organisation, officially launched in June 2022. The non-profit organisation is dedicated to empowering girls and boys from B40 and M40 communities through sports and education. Currently, there are

114 children participating in its programmes. The organisation’s story was featured in Astro Arena’s five-part docuseries titled Little Legends. The series follows David’s journey from her childhood in Penang to her present-day impact on the children she has empowered.

“We believe that everyone has the potential to be a champion; they just need the opportunity,” says David in a Tatler interview. “When the kids step onto the court, I can see that they feel powerful and confident.”

David has left a lasting legacy as the greatest female squash player in history. She held the title of World No 1 for an unprecedented nine consecutive years (from 2006 to 2015) and was voted World Games’ Greatest Athlete of All Time in 2021. Among her most memorable tournaments was her first world title win in Hong Kong at the 2005 World Championship finals, where she defeated then World No 1 Rachael Grinham. The Penangborn superstar has competed in 102 PSA World Tour Finals and emerged victorious in 81 of them. She also secured victory in 61 out of 71 World Series finals. In 2023, David was appointed Deputy Chef de Mission and is set to lead the Malaysian contingent at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

NATIONAL TRACK CYCLIST DATO’ AZIZULHASNI AWANG

Dato’ Mohd Azizulhasni Awang is a highly accomplished professional track cyclist, recognised for his explosive power on the track, which has led to numerous sporting achievements. Fondly known to as “The Pocket Rocketman” due to his small stature, he stands as being the first and, at present, the only Malaysian cyclist to secure two Olympic medals.

Originally from the coastal town of Dungun in the state of Terengganu, Azizulhasni discovered his passion for cycling when his first coach recognised his potential and provided encouragement. His dedication to the sport was further fuelled when he received a bicycle as a reward for excelling in his examinations. Driven by his interest in cycling and his aspirations to become a physician or athlete, he accepted an offer from the national sports school in Bukit Jalil to complete his secondary education. He subsequently pursued a Bachelor of Sport Movement at Melbourne’s Victoria University, with a major in sports science.

Accumulating 12 gold medals at the Asian Track Cycling Championships and securing gold in the 2017 UCI Track Cycling World Championship keirin events, along with a silver in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, constitute as standout achievements in the national cyclist’s career. Currently, he is focused on preparing for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

EQUESTRIAN RIDER QABIL AMBAK

Qabil Ambak is a decorated Malaysian equestrian rider who achieved a historic milestone at the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023 by winning his first Asian Games gold medal in the Dressage Individual Competition—a dream he had harboured for 25 years. Born in 1980, Qabil has represented Malaysia in more than six Asian and SEA Games, excelling in jumping and dressage events and accumulating over 20 medals.

His passion for horses began at the tender age of six, leading him to embark on his equestrian journey at the Royal Selangor Polo Club. He subsequently underwent training under the guidance of German coach, Volker Brommann.

Qabil’s vision extends beyond his personal accomplishments; he aspires to promote and develop equestrianism across the Asian region. Firmly believing that anything can be achieved with hard work and determination, his goal is to cultivate a thriving community of riders and enthusiasts capable of competing internationally and bringing pride to the region.

In addition, Qabil is committed to making a positive impact by advocating for the welfare and well-being of horses. He aims to promote responsible horsemanship and foster a culture of compassion and proper care within the equestrian community.