HANGZHOU: Shereen Samson Vallabuoy is looking forward to some quality time with her family in Ipoh after securing the women's 400m bronze medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games.
Shereen, who is currently based in the United States, has been given a six-week break before the new season, where her quest to qualify for the Olympics on merit will begin.
After enduring a gruelling season, marked by her resilience in overcoming injuries, Shereen is delighted to not only clinch one national record but three.
She excelled in the women's 200m (23.33s), 400m (51.80s), and the 400m indoor, displaying her remarkable talent and determination.
"I am elated to follow in my family's footsteps and win a medal for Malaysia at the Asian Games. My mother, Josephine Mary, and my father, Samson Vallabuoy, have always been my pillars of support.
"Despite their own achievements in representing the country, they have never burdened me with undue pressure.
"They understand the challenges of this path and encourage me to relish the experience, the race, and to give my absolute best.
"Now that I have clinched the bronze, I'm eager to spend valuable time with them," said Shereen.
Nonetheless, her mission in Hangzhou is not yet complete.
Shereen is also scheduled to compete in the women's 4x100m event on Tuesday.
"My participation in the event depends on my hamstring. If there are no issues or injuries, I will help the quartet. Right now, my focus is on my recovery."
Other members of Malaysia's 4x100m squad are Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli, Azreen Nabila Alias, Nur Afrina Batrisya, and Nur Aisyah Rofina Aling.
Shereen's exceptional performance on Saturday marked a significant milestone for Malaysia, ending a 17-year drought for an Asiad medal in track and field.
The 25-year-old clocked 52.58s at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium, securing the bronze.
The gold went to Bahrain's Adekoya Oluwakemi Mujidat with a time of 50.66s, and silver was claimed by compatriot Salwa Eid Naser in 50.92s.
Shereen's success carries a special significance as it aligns with her mother's achievements.
Josephine won the bronze in the women's 800m race at the 1986 Seoul Games and repeated her triumph in the women's 4x400 race at the 1990 Beijing edition.
