Welson hopes to seal ‘last’ SEA Games ticket at home Open

PETALING JAYA: Swimmer Welson Sim is hoping to qualify for potentially his last SEA Games in Bangkok in December.

The three-time Games champion, missed the competition in 2023 in Cambodia for the first time since 2013 and is hoping to make the cut this time.

Welson, who turns 28 next month, though faces a tough task as he needs to beat the qualifying mark which is the Cambodia Games bronze medal winner’s time in the Malaysian Open from April 24-27 in Bukit Jalil.

“My biggest goal this year is to qualify for the SEA Games in Bangkok in the 100m and 200m freestyle,” said Welson.

“The Malaysian Open is crucial for me as it is the qualifying meet for the Games.

“I will be 30 by the time the next Games (2027 KL Games) is held and I’m not sure if I will still be able to swim,” added Welson.

Welson captured gold in the 400m freestyle in 2015 and defended his title in 2017 and added the 200m freestyle as well.

The Sarawakian also represented Malaysia at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro and 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Currently, Welson has had to make changes to his training programme to prolong his career.

“I’m always motivated to keep swimming. Unfortunately as we become older, the training is different,” said Welson.

“I’m still trying to adapt and tweak my training programme. Last time, I used to swim two sessions a day but now I only train in the afternoon. In the morning, I will do more recovery sessions and gym workout.”

Welson also disclosed that he was recovering from a knee injury and is hoping to return to full fitness in time for the Malaysian tourney.