Feat inspires youth player Gan and others

While his senior Jeralyn Tan blazed a historic trail at the Paris Paralympics this week, national youth boccia player Aloysius Gan followed her progress every step of the way.

- Melvyn Teoh

While his senior Jeralyn Tan blazed a historic trail at the Paris Paralympics this week, national youth boccia player Aloysius Gan followed her progress every step of the way.

As the journey culminated with Tan's landmark silver medal for Singapore on Sept 2, he could not help but feel inspired.

The 18-year-old was among a crowd of about 60 who were at a watch party organised by the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) at the Singapore Sports Hub for Tan's women's BC1 final in the afternoon.

Armed with clappers and flags, they cheered Tan on as she played against home favourite Aurelie Aubert, and Gan screamed whenever she scored points.

Even though she lost 5-4, Gan felt lifted by Tan, who became the first Singaporean to win a Paralympic boccia medal.

He said: "Jeralyn has been performing very well, making history by advancing into the final, and although she lost today, she has truly inspired us.