Asiad medallist Yiwei sees no easy way into squad for major events

PETALING JAYA: National diver Chew Yiwei has welcomed the prospect of competing with his teammates for places in two major events this year – the FINA World Aquatics Championships in Gwangju, South Korea, (July 12-28) and the Philippines SEA Games (Nov 30-Dec 11).

The 23-year-old Yiwei emerged as the most outstanding male springboard performer last year after claiming bronze in the 3m individual event at the Indonesian Asian Games.

The medal by Yiwei was Malaysia’s first in 16 years after Yeoh Ken Nee last bagged bronze at the 2002 Busan Asiad.

Despite his brilliant outing, Yiwei does not believe he will be an automatic starter for this year.

The other three members in the springboard department are former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Ooi Tze Liang, Ahmad Amsyar Azman and Muhd Syafiq Puteh.

Tze Liang and Amsyar, who won the 3m springboard synchro silver at the 2014 Incheon Games, had a quiet year in 2018 while Syafiq is nowhere near top class.

“I’m not taking anything for granted as the Asian Games medal is a thing of the past now,” said Yiwei.

“So, I wouldn’t say my place for major competitions is assured.

“I foresee a fierce battle between us especially against Tze Liang and Amsyar, the two seniors whom I have a lot of respect for.

“It’s a healthy rivalry though. That’s one of the reasons why I did well last year.”

Yiwei said he can’t afford to miss out on both the world meet and SEA Games as he has set two big goals in the two meets.

The World Championships presents divers with the first opportunity to make the cut for the Tokyo 2020 Games.

“I want to qualify as early as possible,” said Yiwei.

“As many as 12 berths are up for grabs in Gwangju and I’m targeting to reach the top 12 finals in order to get there.

“I was the only guy in the elite team who did not go to the Rio Olympics in 2016 and I have vowed not to miss it again.

“Since that nightmare, I haven’t rested a day as I try to improve myself. My breakthrough at the Asian Games last year is proof that I have what it takes to take on the world’s best.”

As for the SEA Games, Yiwei said it still matters a lot to him because he has yet to win an individual gold.

“I’ve always wanted to become SEA Games individual champion and I hope to achieve that this year,” said the two-time SEA Games gold medallist in synchro events.

“To date, I have only two individual medals – a bronze (3m springboard at Naypyidaw 2013) and silver (10m platform at Kuala Lumpur 2017).”

Only the 3m springboard events will be contested at the Philippines later this year.