Jayden hopes for UM lifeline to keep swimming dream alive

PETALING JAYA: National swimmer Jayden Tan’s (pic) mind is not at ease despite achieving a personal breakthrough at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games stage.

The 22-year-old, who was the only swimmer to reach an individual final at the Commonwealth Games, may have to rethink about his swimming career unless he gets into Universiti Malaya to pursue a degree course in dentistry.

Jayden is hopeful of getting an answer soon from the oldest public university in the country, believing that it is the ideal choice to secure an education while continuing to train and excel in the sport he loves.

He had completed his foundation studies in dentistry in International Medical University earlier while continuing to train with the national team in Bukit Jalil.

“I’ve applied to UM in March but I’m still waiting for an answer,” he said.

“I got an offer from another private university but they are more into academic studies.

“I understand the public universities are supportive of the national athletes, so I just hope I will get some news soon from them.

“I’m at a crossroads really, as dentistry takes a lot of commitment, so it is just impossible for me to consider to continue competitive swimming at the same time.

“I’ve been managing well for the last few years and coping with my studies but then going up to degree level is another thing,” added Jayden, who was just 0.05s off from breaking the national record he owns in the 400m individual medley.

Jayden, who posted 4:23.29s to place eighth in the 400m individual medley, was pleased with what he achieved in Glasgow.

“I think I swam really well. It’s been a while since I came so close to my personal best for my 400m individual medley considering we did not taper for this meet.

“It’s a positive take away and I’m not done yet,” said Jayden, who will return home to prepare for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games next.