Ing Yueh: We have what it takes to be among world’s best

PETALING JAYA: National artistic gymnast Tan Ing Yueh and Co are on a mission to prove that Malaysia can be world beaters in the sport.

The plucky 22-year-old feels that they have what it takes to do well on the international stage.

For a start, the Melaka-born gymnast is looking to qualify for the final of her events at the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup in Chongqing, China next month.

Ing Yueh, who will be taking part in the vault, balance beam and floor exercise events, hopes to fulfil the key performance index (KPI) set by the National Sports Council (NSC) and her coaches.

“I hope to get in all the finals. That is the target I’ve set and I’m working towards it.

“Based on my first competition of the year (Ukraine International Cup) recently, I am happy and satisfied with my performance.

“Besides, the most important thing is that I learn and gain experience from the competition and hopefully it will help me perform better in upcoming competitions.”

Ing Yueh won silvers in the balance beam and all around and bronze for the team event in Kiev.

She also has also set her sights on the Olympic Games in Tokyo next year even though some quarters have dismissed Malaysia’s chances.

“Every athlete, including me, dreams of competing in the Olympics. I believe that dreams can be achieved if I put in lots of hard work and also believe in my abilities.

“I do not want to have any regrets in my career. I will fight hard for that dream. I do not want to downplay my abilities and say I cannot get to the Olympics. I will surely work for it. Nothing is impossible”

There is also the SEA Games, where the girls have been tasked to get at least two golds.

At the Games in the Philippines, only the individual events will be contested.

“I will focus on my stronger events and practise it well to achieve the targets.”

The four events that will be contested are the vault, balance beam, parallel bar and floor exercise.

She is taking part in at least five competitions this year to prepare for the SEA Games.

The competitions are the World Cup in China, Singapore Open, Asian Championships in Mongolia, Universiade Games in Italy and the World Championships in Germany.