PETALING JAYA, Dec 29 — Malaysia Mountaineering Federation (PMM) is setting its sights on having at least one national sport climber qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
PMM president Mohd Zaidi Kamaruddin believes this is achievable, given the rapid development of sport climbing in Malaysia.
However, he acknowledged financial constraints as a significant challenge, particularly in funding athletes’ participation in international competitions.
“There is growing enthusiasm for this sport, as seen from the increasing number of climbing gyms and the emergence of new talent.
“I am confident that with sufficient financial support, this sport can achieve greater heights,” he said during the national team selection session here today.
Speaking about the selection session, Zaidi expressed satisfaction with the performances displayed by the athletes.
He announced that another selection round would be held in February to finalise the squad for international tournaments, including the SEA Games in Thailand in December next year.
In the women’s bouldering category, Shareen Mohd Nasran emerged victorious, completing three out of four routes with three tops and four zones in 21 attempts.
Second place went to Wan Athirah Hidayah Ahmad Fuzli, who trailed by just one top, while Renee Tan Sui Lin finished third with two tops and three zones.
In the men’s category, Kedah-born Dzulkram Alzam Mohd Zamri led the pack, completing two out of four routes with two tops and four zones in 23 attempts.
Ayman Firas secured second place with one top and three zones, while Ku Muhammad Faridhwan Ku Aziz claimed third, narrowly trailing by one zone.
— Bernama
