KUALA LUMPUR: State-level para-athletes are eager to get down to business at the Para Malaysia Games, which starts in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow after Covid-19 wiped out their 2020 and 2021 seasons.
Over 1,000 athletes from 15 contingents will be vying for 293 medals across 10 sports.
Sabah's Stanley Leeroy Sukian, 18, is one of many athletes who are raring for action. He will compete in the men's shot put (T20).
"This will be my first Para Malaysia Games, and I am looking forward to it," said Stanley, who is from Kuala Penyu but trains in Beaufort.
"We have been training for a long time but not competing regularly due to Covid-19, depending on internal events to keep fit.
"I feel excited but nervous because this is my first time, and I'm not sure what to expect.
"If things go well, I hope to break my personal best of 12 metres and win a medal."
Stanley, who looks up to shot put world record holder Ryan Crouser, hopes to represent the country at the Asean Para Games and one day qualify for the Paralympics.
Kedah powerlifting coach Azrilhezri Awang echoed Stanley's sentiments.
"Since Covid-19 struck, we had only one national circuit competition," said Azrilhezri, when met at the Para Malaysia Games opening ceremony here today.
"Besides that, we only trained, so, of course, our athletes are excited to be here. Our preparations have gone well, and we hope to fight for medals in the Under-49kg and Under-107kg categories."
Malaysia's success at the international level through athletes such as paralympic and world champion Bonnie Bunyau Gustin has sparked more interest in para-sports at the state level.
"It has changed a bit (since Bonnie's success). The response is good whenever we scout for talents in the districts. This is good for the sport," added Azrilhezri.
Sarawak, who emerged overall champions in 2018 with 61 gold, 62 silver and 40 bronze medals, are again the favourites.
Sarawak have sent the largest contingent of 143 athletes, followed by Sabah (111) and Johor (106).
The opening ceremony, held at Axiata Arena today, was officiated by Paralympic Council of Malaysia patron Tun Jeanne Abdullah.