Last minute mistake robs Pressy of gold
Bittersweet. That best describes Pressy Misty Philip’s maiden appearance in the SEA Games ongoing in the country’s capital.
KOTA KINABALU: Bittersweet. That best describes Pressy Misty Philip’s maiden appearance in the SEA Games ongoing in the country’s capital.
Pressy put up a gallant showing as she fought her way into the final of the Karate +68 Kumite event.
She was up against Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Hong in the title match and like in the previous rounds, the Tambunan lass was in control leading 3-1 with only seconds remaining but the unexpected happened.
Nguyen Thi Hong Anh landed an accurate kick for Ippon (three points) in what was the last action of the bout to clinch the gold, registering a 4-3 win.
It was a harsh ending for Pressy who had until then been impressive but she put on a brave face to admit that her own mistake proved to be the downfall.
While expressing her disappointment at not being able to add gold to the country’s medal tally, the setback did not dampen here spirit, especially when she made the podium in her very first SEA Games.
“I feel very happy because I have done my best and performed well even though I lost in the final match because of my own mistake.
“I didn’t defend well. Anything can happen in (the) last minute but I will take it and learn from it,” she said via Whatsapp yesterday.
Meanwhile, Pressy said she would have to discuss with her parents before deciding on her next move.
The 18-year-old’s participation in the 29th edition of the SEA Games was in doubt at first due to study commitments.
In fact, she had to put on hold her studies at the Labuan Matriculation College until next year to be able to participate in the SEA Games.
“I don’t have any plans yet... may be I still need to refer to my parents for their advice,” she replied when asked on the opportunity to represent the country in future tournaments.
Towards this end, Pressy thanked her ever supportive parents Philip Panis and Chin Siew Yon as well as the Sabah Karate Association for their support, encouragement and guidance in her chosen sport and future career.