PHNOM PENH: While all eyes were on national runner Shereen Samson Vallabouy, her younger teammate Umar Osman came out of nowhere to break the national record en route to winning the men's 400m gold today.
Not much had been expected from Umar, 20, in the event but his blistering pace over the final 50m saw him clinching an unexpected gold for Malaysia at the Morodok Techo Stadium.
His winning time of 46.34 seconds erased the former national mark of 46.41s (Zaiful Zainal Abidin) which had stood since 2001.
Philippines duo Umajesty Wesley (46.52s) and Frederick Cabatu (46.63s) came in second and third.
Umar said he was determined to make an impact in the event as an underdog.
"I gave it everything I had to win the gold. This is my first apperance at the Sea Games and it is just amazing to actually win it and also break the national record," said Umar.
"Not many believed in me before this but my coach, family and friends gave me all the motivation I needed."
Umar will also compete in the 4x400m relay event later this week.
