KUALA LUMPUR – Nor Sarah Adi, one of the few Malaysian athletes excelling in both track and field events, credits her determination and never-give-up attitude as key ingredients for her success.
Speaking to Scoop, the SEA Games medallist shared that she aspires to be a role model for young women in sports.
Hailing from Felda Maran in Pahang, Sarah’s journey began with predawn training sessions, running about 200 rounds around her school field – a routine she maintains to this day.
Defying societal expectations, she highlighted her parents’ support, acknowledging that success is a journey filled with self-doubt, but a steadfast belief in her dreams propelled her forward.
“My journey started in my village, where I would wake up and train vigorously every day before sunrise.
“The people in my village used to complain to my mother, saying that a young girl my age shouldn’t be running around at such an early hour. But, my parents have always been supportive, giving me all the freedom I needed.
“My hardcore training and explosive sprints have moulded me into who I am today.
“I urge all young women out there to break societal barriers and excel in sports like track and field,” said the 23-year-old, a member of the national team.
Expressing gratitude to her coaches, particularly coach Roslinda Samsu, Sarah is committed to setting an example for young women athletes.
Her recent gold medal in the 4x100m at the Varsity Track and Field Championships at the UM Arena highlighted her leadership and commitment to her team’s success.
“For today’s (yesterday’s) final, honestly, we didn’t do any specific preparation. We trusted each other and just wanted to do our best for the team and deliver a gold medal.”
Looking ahead, Sarah has her sights set on next year’s Asean University Games in Surabaya, aiming to give her personal best despite most national athletes being off-season this year.
Representing Universiti Putra Malaysia, Sarah led her team to victory in the 4x100m relay, completing the race in first place with a time of 45.22s.
Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris finished second with a time of 47.29s, and Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia secured third place, clocking 48.05s.
Sarah’s impressive achievements include a gold medal at the 2021 SEA Games in Vietnam and a silver at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia in the pole vault.
Additionally, she clinched a bronze in the 4x100m at the 2023 SEA Games, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in Malaysian athletics. – November 19, 2023