PETALING JAYA: National gymnast Ng Chun Chen overcame the painful memories of a traumatic fall last year to clinch the vault gold medal at the FIG World Challenge Cup in Varna, Bulgaria.
The 24-year-old Penangite delivered a composed performance to top the podium with 14.233 points, finishing ahead of Bulgaria’s Daniel Trifonov (14.000) and Hungary’s Botond Molnar (13.833) on Saturday. Fellow Malaysian Mohd Sharul Aimy placed eighth with 12.666 points.
For Chun Chen, the triumph was especially meaningful after enduring a difficult period following a failed routine during the World Cup in Antalya, Turkiye, in February last year where he slipped and landed on his back and failed to register a score.
"I’m still in shock. This was my first tournament of the year and to win gold feels unbelievable," said Chun Chen.
"When the score came out, I could hardly believe it. I felt like crying but everything happened so suddenly. I’m just proud to compete alongside such strong gymnasts."
Chun Chen admitted the incident in Antalya had badly affected his confidence and performances.
"The last year has been difficult. I didn’t win at the SEA Games in December and I struggled mentally after the fall in Antalya," he said.
“I kept overthinking after the fall and it became a mental barrier for me. It took a long time to overcome it and return to this level,” he said.
Despite qualifying second for the final, Chun Chen remained calm under pressure as the other finalists produced strong routines before his turn.
“Last year I let the pressure affect me, but this time I stayed focused and just concentrated on landing both vaults cleanly,” he said. “I knew if I executed well, I had a good chance of finishing on the podium.”
His flawless execution ultimately secured a memorable gold medal and completed an inspiring comeback.
Chun Chen also credited coach Ng Shu Liang for deciding to compete in Varna despite the late preparations.
Looking ahead, Chun Chen said the team’s focus has now shifted to the Asian Championships in China next month, with plans for an overseas training stint already in place.
"Our main goals are still the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. I want to keep this momentum going," he added.
