Aaliyah eyes first world-level podium spot after top five show

Making a splash: Aaliyah is all smiles after making the top five final for the women’s open tricks in the World Games.

PETALING JAYA: Waterski athlete Aaliyah Yoong Hanifah raised hopes of a possible first world-level podium spot after an impressive start in her debut World Games outing in the United States.

The 19-year-old finished an unexpected fourth among higher ranked open women trick skiers to ensure she gets into the top five to qualify for the final in Birmingham, Alabama.