SOME 250 participants from various schools and higher learning institutions nationwide took part in the 18th National Woodball Tournament at Vision Park in Kepala Batas.
The tournament was jointly organised by the Malaysia Woodball Association and Penang Woodball Association, with support from the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP).
This year’s tournament which ran from June 5 until 9, marks the second time Penang has been chosen as a host, following last year’s successful event.
Described as a cross between croquet and golf, woodball is a sport where a mallet is used to pass a ball through gates. It can be played on grass, sand, or indoors, with rules similar to golf, including tee shots and putting strokes.
Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who officiated the closing ceremony on June 9, commended the Malaysia Woodball Association, Penang Woodball Association, MSNPP, sponsors, and volunteers for making their contributions to the success of the tournament.
“We managed to attract some 250 participants to this year’s tournament, indicating a growing interest in woodball, especially among the youth,” he said.
“I am confident that, through continuous efforts to promote this unique sport, we will be able to produce new talents for woodball who can represent the state and country at international level.”
Gooi also congratulated all participants for displaying their best efforts and exemplary sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
“You are all winners, no matter what the outcome, because your courage to participate and give your best is something to be proud of.
“Congratulations also to the winners. May this success serve as a stepping stone towards achieving even more in woodball,” said Gooi, expressing his hope for more woodball tournaments to be held in Penang in the near future.
Also present were Malaysia Woodball Association president Elaine Tan, Penang Woodball Association deputy president Jamaludin Yaacob, Penang Woodball Association vice-president Nor Azam Ariffin, and National Woodball Tournament 2024 director Zulkarnain Mohamed Shaharuddin.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad