Former long-distance swim king Jeffrey’s tips certainly hold water
PETALING JAYA: Every athlete knows how the nerves and anxiety that come with competing at a major Games can ruin performance.
It’s a topic that former long distance swimming king Jeffrey Ong can relate to.
And the 45-year-old Jeffrey has some good advice for athletes to win the battle of nerves at the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia.
The trick is to refocus, visualise and to stay calm. With that, Jeffrey hopes that all the Malaysian athletes will give a courageous show and also enjoy the Games.
“Whether an athlete is a first-timer or a seasoned campaigner, the nerves will usually kick in,” said the six- footer, who is no stranger to competing in big Games.
The multiple SEA Games gold medallist featured at the 1990 Auckland Commonwealth Games and also represented the country at two Olympics – Seoul 1988 and Barcelona 1992.
His silver medal in the 1,500m freestyle at the World Games in Sheffield, United Kingdom, in 1991 with a time of 15:23.61 still stands as a national record.
He also became the first Malaysian male swimmer to win a medal at the Asian Games – a silver in the 1,500m freestyle in Beijing in 1990.
Jeffrey can recall his tense moments.
“It really depends on the athletes. Some get nervous, some are excited while some are in the zone but I usually run through the race in my mind before the race and it helped me,” he said.
“Some visualise the race and imagine the winning moment ... different athletes may have different relaxing techniques but it’s good to be doing something to calm the nerves.
“I had the help of a psychologist, Michel Gagne, during my time. In fact, family members and good friends can also do their part with positive words before the Games.”
Jeffery said unexpected events could also throw athletes off-balance but one should remain calm at all times.
“I remember the 1989 KL SEA Games when I was down with food poisoning.
I knew the nation was expecting me to defend my two gold medals.
“I did not let this incident dampen my spirit.
“I took the right steps, rested well, took my medication and fortunately, I recovered in time to win the two gold medals.
“It all depends on how an athlete can handle themselves in unexpected situations ... different people handle it differently.”
While focused on winning, Jeffery hopes the athletes will cherish the Games too.
“Eat a good meal, stay relaxed, stick to one’s game plan, make friends, perform the best and make the most of the Games ... it’s a privilege and honour to compete for the nation. It should be enjoyed and cherished,” added the jovial Jeffrey, who is now the regional commercial director for PGA Tour.