Rhythmic gymnasts not ambitious enough, says Petrina

29/08/2012

By ASHREENA PILLAI


PETALING JAYA: The lack of passion and drive is the reason why Malaysia’s rhythmic gymnasts are unable to make the grade at the highest level.

Malaysian Gymnastics Federation (MGF) elite and back-up squad co-ordinator Petrina Low said the current team have the talent but lack the ambition to make a breakthrough.


She was disappointed that no Malaysian made it to the recent Olympics in London although some of her charges have showcased their brilliance in the Commonwealth Games and Youth Olympics.

“When we go for competitions, our girls are always praised for their beauty and elegance. I wish they would show more desire and passion for their sport as well,” said Petrina.

The philosophy of the sport is simple – no pain, no gain – as behind the bright smiles, sparkling leotards and dazzling routines are months of training, sacrifices and sheer hard work.

“As an athlete – especially a gymnast – you need to have the drive and self-motivation to achieve success. Discipline, effort and determination are also very important. You can’t train for two to three hours a week and expect to be good. Gymnasts must train with the apparatus every day to get the right feel and ease of execution,” Petrina said.

Having been part of the national rhythmic gymnastics set-up since the mid 80s, Petrina is determined to see the sport rise from doldrums.

“We have a talented group of girls capable of making it to the highest level. It’s just a matter of whether they want to or not.

“I hope they realise they have the potential to be great gymnasts and aspire to do so because they can,” she said.

The MGF will be using the two major events in 2014 – the Asian Games and Youth Olympics – to identify the candidates who can qualify for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Those in the running are Amy Kwan Dict Weng (pic) and Lee Wan Nin, both 17, Wong Poh San, 16, Fatin Zakirah Jalany Zain Jalany, 15, as well as 13-year-old juniors Olivia Tai Qing Tong, Sha­sangari Siva­neswary Nagarajan and Shak Yuki.