ROAD TO COMMONWEALTH

National discus thrower, Irfan Shamsuddin shares his thoughts about being qualified for the Commonwealth Games and how he stays entirely focused on the goal

- MELISSA FOONG

WITH A FIVE-TIME SEA Games gold medalist title, Irfan Shamsuddin managed a throw of 58.26 metres to secure his fifth straight discus crown at the My Dinh National Stadium during this year’s SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam—proving that he is a top in Malaysian athletics. Unbeatable and unstoppable, the 26-year-old athlete is the image of determination. Going into the sport with a winning streak is an accomplishment that earned him the title ‘King of Discus’.

With more victories to add to his name after being qualified for the Commonwealth Games, Irfan shares his thoughts on being one of the 107 athletes participating and how he is preparing for the upcoming game.

Congratulations on qualifying for the Commonwealth Games, Irfan! First off, what are your thoughts on being one of the athletes chosen to compete in Birmingham this year?

I am extremely thankful and honoured to be able to compete and represent Malaysia in this year’s Commonwealth Games, since it’s been two long years of not being able to compete internationally due to COVID-19. I’ve been training really hard for the games and the thought of being there is exciting enough already! I’m really looking forward to it.