Joyce bags Women’s Open title in Manila
KOTA KINABALU: Joyce Heng Shu Xia is simply unstoppable.
After winning the Women’s Open title in the Static Monster World Championship in June, the Sabah strongwoman claimed yet another international title last Sunday.
The 32-year-old again proved her prowess with a top place finish in the Women’s Open category of the Philippines’ Strongest Man competition at Mandaluyong in Manila.
Joyce collected a total of 38 points to narrowly beat home favourite Joyce Reboton and Hong Kong’s Anja Rozenzweig, who accumulated 37 points and 34 points respectively.
The contestants were required to take on the disciplines, namely Loading Race Medley (Yoke Walk, Axle Bar Carry, Farmer’s Walk), Axle Clean & Press - Last Man Standing, Deadlift Medley + AMRAP and Atlas Stones to Platform.
And Joyce, who was the sole Malaysian contestant, said it was never an easy win for her especially when she had just returned from a monthlong off from taking part in competitions.
“On the other hand, the victory showed that my training method has been good.
“In fact, I only started intensive training just a few weeks prior to being invited to the Philippines’ Strongest Man competition.
“So, it was definitely tough for me in the competition... that is why I’m very happy to have secured the gold medal. It’s always nice to win for your country and state,” she said yesterday.
Having said that, Joyce revealed he would continue to train and work harder to get into top shape in preparation for various competitions in the next few months.
The competitions she is to compete are the ZK Classic in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur on October 12, the Johor Bahru Strongfit on October 19 and the Malaysia Strongest Woman in Selangor on November 2.
“I hope to be in my best shape and win more titles,” she added.
Meanwhile, Joyce took the opportunity to thank Youth and Sports Minister Phoong Jin Zhe, her sponsors Anytime Gym & Fitness and Cerberus Strength USA as well as trainer Takashi Ishihara and mentor Suthida Theerakhawong for their strong support for her.