Final sprint for flagbearer Siti

AFTER 16 years in the sport, sprinter Siti Noor Iasah Ariffin (pic) is hoping to end her career on a high at the Tokyo Paralympics on Aug 24-Oct 5.

The 32-year-old said Tokyo will likely be her last appearance at a multi-sport competition.

She feels she will not be around for the 2024 Paris edition.

Siti, who specialises in the T20 (intellectual impairment) 400m event, came close to winning a medal in Rio when she finished fourth.

She was pipped by another athlete who dived across the finish line for the bronze.

The Johor-born admitted that clinching a medal in Tokyo would be a big ask but assured that she will leave nothing on the table.

“I am 32 now, and I have been in sports for the last 16 years. I think it's time for me to focus on my family,” said Siti.

“Winning a medal will not be easy as I have not gone for competitions since Covid-19 struck. I am also not sure about my rivals’ form.

“My goal is to better my personal best (58.55s), and hopefully, that will help improve my chances of finishing on the podium.

“I am grateful that I have not suffered any injuries (in the lead up to Tokyo). If I am in good condition on race day, who knows, it could be my day.”

Siti has been selected as the national contingent’s flag-bearer alongside powerlifter Bonnie Bunyau Gustin.

She considers it to be a huge honour.

“I have never been given such a big responsibility before, and I feel incredibly excited,” added Siti.

“I feel even more fired up to do well for Malaysia."

A Paralympic medal would cap what has been a successful career for Siti. She is no stranger to the podium at the Asian level.

She had won gold medals in the 400m and 800m events at the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Asean Para Games and the 400m at the 2018 Indonesia Asian Para Games.