COUNTDOWN TO GOLD COAST COMMONWEALTH GAMES – 2 DAYS TO GO
PETALING JAYA: The support services offered by the National Sports Institute (NSI) will be the key to the Malaysian contingent’s success at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, says chef-de-mission Huang Ying How.
Malaysia will be involved in 21 events, including para sports, and are looking at a top 10 finish. At the 2014 Glasgow edition, they finished 12th with a 6-7-6 medal haul.
Ying How said the support services, ranging from strength and conditioning coaching to physiotherapy, have been excellent thus far.
He said the support services are offered under the Podium Programme which was launched in 2016. And he believes Malaysia will reap the benefits of the programme in Gold Coast.
“I’m confident we can do it whether we finish with six golds or 10 golds.
“The good thing is that even non-Podium athletes are also enjoying similar support services and that has been a game changer for the team.
“The only drawback is that the programme has only been with us for two years. All sports are benefiting from it but the real impact can be seen in years to come.
“Strong sporting nations such as England have a strong programme and invested heavily into their support staff.
“It’s still exciting to see where we’ll stand this time around,” added Ying How.
Malaysia are sending a total of 178 athletes with 95 officials and support staff.
The bulk of the contingent departed for Gold Coast on Saturday with the opening ceremony slated for Wednesday.