KUCHING: Ironman Jonah Chang Rigan achieved a milestone by claiming gold medals in three men's throwing disciplines at the Malaysia Games (Sukma).
In a perfect farewell to Sukma, the Sarawakian, who had already won the shot put and discus titles, easily secured the hammer throw gold medal at Sarawak Stadium today.
Jonah is the first Sarawakian to achieve this feat in the field events.
He set a new personal best with a throw of 54.56m, surpassing Perlis' Rizad Azri Che Radzi (48.70) and Sabah's Nabil Faiz Ayub (46.50), who took silver and bronze, respectively, in the hammer throw.
Despite being the favourite, Jonah took a humble approach before the hammer throw final, expecting fierce competition.
"Sometimes I don't want to boast because anything can happen. I must remain humble, but now I can speak up because I've secured three gold medals," Jonah said.
"I was nervous at the start but became confident after my throws. This is history, and I am so happy with this achievement."
With his three titles, Jonah will receive RM45,000 from the Sarawak state government.
On Monday, Jonah set a new Games record with a throw of 17.66 in the shot put.