Clark, Philippines, December 4, 2019: Talk about sporting comebacks!
Two members of Singapore’s gold medal-winning women’s triples lawn bowls team on Wednesday returned to the SEA Games podium after a break of 18 years.
Margaret Lim Poh Eng, 64, and Amira Goh Quee Kee, 60, were members of the bronze medal-winning women’s four in the 2001 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.
Due to work commitments they did not compete in the national team at the SEA Games for 16 years but decided to make a comeback three years ago – and their decision brought a golden reward at the Clark lawn bowls centre on Wednesday along with Shermeen Lim Xin Yi, very much the junior member of the team at 30.
When asked about the key to their success here, Margaret Lim replied: “Our team work – and never give up to the very end. We believe in each other.”
In front of a boisterous crowd on a glorious sunny morning following heavy rain the previous day, Singapore beat the Philippines 16-13 in the women’s triple final.
It was a fantastic atmosphere as four games were played simultaneously on a patchy grass lawn bowls green. “It was a case of who could adapt,” added Margaret. “It was 50-50 and you needed a lot of luck.”
This was the first competition in which the three had played together, and they trained for three solid months for the 30th SEA Games.
“When we go back to Singapore we will try to bring in new blood,” she added. “This win will encourage younger players to the game.”
Shermeen commented: “It was fantastic to play with two such experienced players. When we were under pressure they were very solid. We trust each other and know that each person will do their best. We know we can expect the best from each other.”
Malaysia clinched bronze after beating a youthful Brunei 17-15 in the third and fourth placed match.
