LOOKING FOR OLYMPIC BREAKTHROUGH

Sam aims to dance his way to 2024 Paris

HE may appear to be cocky, but Sam Jee Lek, also known as Lego Sam, sure knows how to strut his stuff when it comes to breakdancing.

After he had finished “teasing and provoking” his opponents in true breakdancing style to win Malaysia’s second gold medal at the Philippines Sea Games yesterday, the self-confessed “bad boy” immediately set himself a lofty target: the 2024 Paris Olympics!

Vietnam’s Le Huu Phuoc and Singapore’s Sim Eng Kiat received silver and bronze respectively.

“I’m 24 and I still believe I can qualify for the Paris Olympics with help from the Malaysian government (National Sports Council),” said Sam, who collected the maximum 12 points to beat all his four opponents in the packed arena the size of a normal wedding hall in Malaysia.

He will definitely need a lot of help from NSC to qualify for Paris, having come to the Philippines under Category B2, which means he will not have his expenses — for food, flight and accommodation — refunded despite his victory. “Winning this gold medal is very special to me because I’ve always wanted to represent the country and become a champion.

“I spent about RM5,000 for training and expenses to travel to the Games.

“And since I came under Category B2, I hope there will be some monetary support from the NSC,” said Sam.

Growing up, he described himself as a “bad boy” and has been breakdancing since he was 17 years old.

So, how does he earn a living? “Breakdancing has been my full-time job since 17. I travel the world to compete and win cash prizes.

“I also do many shows in China to earn my pay cheque. Even though I’ve spent much of my life in China (because his father has business dealings there) I always tell people there I’m a Malaysian. ‘Saya Anak Malaysia!’” were his parting words.

Arrogant, but humble as well!