Monday February 18, 2013

Schzuan on track to win Mynamar SEA Games berth

By Ashreena pillai

KUALA LUMPUR: Middle distance runner Schzuan Ahmad Rosely (pic) stayed on course to fulfil his dream of glory in the SEA Games by getting off to a winning start for the year.

The 21-year-old turned in an impressive showing at the Federal Territory Amateur Athletics Association (FTAA)-MSSKL Throws, Jumps and Under Distance 2013 meet held at the National Sports Council Training Track in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.

Sczhuan blazed the tracks en route to victory in the 600m race with a personal best time of 1:21.50. His previous best was 1:25.20. Navy’s S. Mathialagan (1:23.16) and Bukit Jalil Sports School’s Revin Ramuh (1:24.16) took silver and bronze respectively.

“I’m satisfied with the result. I usually run the 400m so this was like a training, and to achieve my personal best in my first competition this year is a bonus,” said Schzuan.

“My coach (K. Jayabalan) initially targeted a time of 1:22.50 for me. I clocked 1:21.50 which was even better. I know my coach is happy with my performance ... I can sleep easy now. ”

Schzuan has set his sights on achieving glory in the men’s 400m race at the SEA Games in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, this December.

While it is still early, Schzuan admits winning his first competition of the year is a morale booster and the Malacca-born runner hopes to carry on improving to put himself in good stead to qualify for the Games.

“My long-term goal is to qualify for the SEA Games. I will work towards that goal. I want to taste individual victory in the 400m,” he said.

Schzuan’s personal best in the 400m is 47.68 which he set en route to winning the silver medal at the 2012 Sukma in Kuantan, Pahang. The Games’ qualifying mark for the event is 47.71.

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