Youngest triathlete Jun You ready to shine at Youth Games

Out for splashing time: Youngest triathlete Wong Jun You eyes for success in Bahrain.

PETALING JAYA: Representing Malaysia in the Asian Youth Games is more than just a personal milestone for triathlete Wong Jun You.

It is a mission to showcase the spirit of the game and inspire more young Malaysians to take up the sport.

As the country’s youngest triathlon representative at the ongoing Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, the athlete has set his sights on breaking his personal best of 27:16 recorded during the qualifying race comprising a 300m swim, 8km bike and 2km run.

“This is my first major multi-sport event representing Malaysia in triathlon and I feel very proud to be given this opportunity,” said the 14-year-old Jun You, who is the Malaysia and Asia Book of Records holder.

“My main goal is to achieve a personal best and hopefully finish in the top 20.

“Most importantly, I want to gain valuable experience from this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“This is only the beginning and I hope to give my best to inspire others, especially the younger generation to chase their goals fearlessly.”

Jun You has been training diligently in preparation for his maiden appearance in Bahrain, all while managing the demanding balance between school and sport.

“I go to school from Monday to Friday. I’m grateful to receive support from the school which allows me to arrange my schedule effectively,” said Jun You, who is a student at SMK Tropicana.

“I also work closely with my physiotherapist and fitness trainer under a well-structured training plan – three days of swimming and two days each for running and cycling – to stay both mentally and physically prepared.”