KUCHING: Taekwondo exponent Randy Owen is set to become the highest earner at the Sarawak Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Kuching, thanks to his exploits in poomsae.
The Sarawakian has already won three gold medals and one silver at the biennial event, earning him RM50,000 in rewards.
The 19-year-old also stands a strong chance of being named Sportsman of Sukma.
Despite the financial windfall, Randy remains focused on bringing glory to Sarawak.
"I started taekwondo at Lundu Secondary School when I was 13 years old. However, I had to move to Kuching to get more systematic training," he said.
"The experience of training on concrete in Lundu was painful and led to injuries. But now, training in Kuching has made things easier for me."
Randy's achievements include victories in the men's individual and team poomsae, and team freestyle events.
He also won a silver in the mixed poomsae event, partnering Seah Jing Ying.
Randy expressed his ambition to compete in international events.
"Participating in Sukma is crucial for me to improve and refine my skills," he added.
The Sarawak government has promised an incentive of RM15,000 to state athletes who win gold medals at this year's Sukma and Para Sukma events.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg also announced that silver medallists will receive RM5,000, while bronze medallists will earn RM3,000.