PENANGITE Christopher Soosai is set to bring honour to both the state and country as he prepares to make his debut in the Athletics Road Running World Championships in Latvia on Oct 1.
The Penang Forward Sports Club member achieved a remarkable feat by clocking 1 hour 9 minutes during the 21km Half Marathon event at the Gold Coast Marathon in Australia on June 30 this year. This outstanding achievement earned him the qualification to participate in the Athletics Road Running World Championship, with a qualifying reference time of under 1 hour 10 minutes.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who presented the state and national flags to Christopher in a simple ceremony in Komtar today, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the runner on his success in securing a spot at the prestigious competition in Latvia.
“Christopher’s accomplishment fills us with pride, especially considering that he is only an amateur runner serving with the Royal Malaysian Navy (RLDM) team, rather than a full-time professional in the national team.
“However, as he is not a registered runner with the country’s national team, he faces several difficulties, including financial support, to participate in the tournament.
“But thanks to the club’s adviser Datuk Tom Khoo, Christopher’s expenses totalling RM10,000 including flight tickets, accommodation, registration costs, meals and other related expenses would be taken care of by him. The state government would like to express its appreciation to Khoo for his full sponsorship.
“At the same time, we also thank the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) for its contribution of RM1,000 to Christopher in his journey to Latvia.
“I hope that Christopher is grateful for the opportunity to run in the championship and will be calm during the race.
“I hope he will also carry the name of Penang and Malaysia with pride. Syabas and all the best,” Chow said in his speech.
Christopher, a 30-year-old physical instructor with the Royal Malaysian Navy, said he would do his best in Latvia.
His time of 1hr 9mins clocked at the 21km Half Marathon event at the Gold Coast Marathon was his personal best, eclipsing his previous best of 1hr 12mins set in 2018.
“I am very glad to qualify for the championship. This is the first time I am going to take part in the world-level meet.
“It’s going to be cold there but I am prepared for the test. I would like to thank Penang Forward Sports Club, its president Mr Lim (Choo Hooi) for his guidance and adviser Datuk Tom Khoo for his generous sponsorship,” Christopher said.
Lim said that as a non-governmental organisation, the Penang Forward Sports Club has strived to nurture talented athletes.
“We try to develop their talents. And we are working closely with the state government to fulfil the athletes’ dreams,” Lim said.
Also present at the press conference were Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Penang Chief Minister’s political secretary Lau Keng Ee, Penang State Sports Council director Harry Chai Eng Hua, Datuk Tom Khoo, and Penang Forward Sports Club president Lim Choo Hooi.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Siew Chia En