KUALA LUMPUIR: Recurve archer Ananthy Lachimanan quit her job as a clerk at a driving school to focus on her career in sports.
And the risky move paid dividends today as the 35-year-old downed P. Kaechaemchan of Thailand 4-0 to secure the bronze medal in the women's individual (open) event at the Kuala Lumpur Asean Para Games (Para KL2017).
Ananthy said she has no regrets quitting her job and dedicated the win to her supporters.
"I had worked there (driving school) for two years and quit in May. I know things are tougher for me (being disabled) but I feel it was a worthwhile move," she said, when met after her match at the Synthetic Turf Field in Bukit Jalil.
"It is not easy being an athlete as you have to train in the hot sun all day but I never gave up.
"It was a tough game today as my opponent came back strong late in the match but I was determined to do well thanks to the motivation and guidance from my coach.
"This medal is for my parents, family, coaches, National Sports Council and all those who have supported me."
Ananthy, who was previously a special education teacher in Perak, has now set her sights on making an impact at the Asian Para Games in Jakarta next year.
Translated from Berita Harian
