NO SETBACK TOO HEAVY FOR LILIAN TO OVERCOME
Bodybuilder Lilian lifts fourth world title despite financial setback
PETALING JAYA: When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. That saying may be a cliche – but it always carries weight for women bodybuilder Lilian Tan.
Tough challenges only make her more strong-willed to succeed at competitions.
Despite limited funds, Lilian did not give up on her dream and her dogged persistence was rewarded with a fourth world bodybuilding title.
On Friday, the Penang-born Lilian topped the women’s 55kg category at the World Bodybuilding and Physical Fitness Championships in Chiangmai, Thailand.
The 45 year-old Lilian is the only Asian athlete to win it four times after successes in Bangkok (2012), Mumbai (2014) and Pattaya (2016).
She also took home the gold in the 30-years and above category.
Lilian is a shining example of how far a strong drive and tons of determination can take you.
The National Sports Council, with the current cost-cutting measures in place, only provided limited funding and Lilian had to resort to crowd-funding.
She raised the desired amount to cover the trip, and the rest is history.
“I’m very pleased with the package I brought to the world championships this year. It was by far my best conditioning ever,” said Lilian.
“They also introduced a new category (30 years and above) this year and I managed to come out tops.
“It’s a record as no one has won two golds in the female category at the world championships.
“I was told by the officials that I was in a different league and I’ve raised the bar so high,” said Lilian.
2018 will be a year to cherish as it was in April when she got married to former Asian bodybuilding champion Terry Gallyot.
“This is a memorable year for me and I also have to thank our former Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin and my supporters for helping to promote my cause.”