Swimmer Yip Pin Xiu has ensured that the Majulah Singapura will be played and the Singapore flag will be raised for the first time at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
At the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, Yip defended her 100m backstroke S2 Paralympic title by touching the wall first in a time of 2:16.61 to claim her fourth gold medal at the Paralympics since 2008.
Yip had finished her heats in top spot in the morning in a time of 2:14.46.
About nine-odd seconds behind Yip was Japan’s Miyuki Yamada, who brought her home fans to their feet with her silver medal finish in a time of 2:26.18.
Mexico’s Fabiola Ramirez took the bronze medal in a time of 2:36.54.
Said Yip, “I was emotional because it’s been a rough year.
“Myself, the coaches and the team has worked really hard.
“All along, Singaporeans have been extremely supportive.
“Especially the last few days, there’s been an outpouring of love and support.
“Just being able to stand on the podium and have our national anthem played, it was really a special moment. I did this for myself and for Singapore,” said Ms Yip.
In a Facebook post, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong said Yip turned in a “majestic performance.”
“With 25m to go, it became quite clear that she would clinch the gold.
“As I watched our flag proudly hoisted, and our national anthem ringing across the Tokyo Aquatic Centre, I saw PX fight back some tears.
“You can see what it means to her – to be able to compete and win, for Singapore.”
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Photos: Sport Singapore