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Feature: Singapore rejoices over its first-ever Olympic gold

Xinhua, August 13, 2016 Adjust font size:

"Well done Joseph, well done Singapore!" audiences from Singapore Swimming Association (SSA) fraternity shouted in jubilation at Singapore's OCBC Aquatic Center on Saturday during the live telecast screening of the Rio Olympics men's 100m butterfly final.

Joseph Schooling, a 21-year-old swimmer for Team Singapore, touched the wall first in 50.39 seconds, beating American legend Michael Phelps, who had taken 22 Olympic gold medals, as well as South Africa's Chad le Clos and Hungarian Laszlo Cseh.

Aug. 13, 2016 is a historical date for Singapore, as Schooling won the first-ever Olympic gold medal for the city state. Singapore burst into cheers after the amazing race.

"We never have a gold medal like that. I'm lost for words, we are so happy and so proud of him," said Joscelin Yeo, former Singaporean national swimmer who is also the vice president at the SSA.

Oon Jin Teik, the SSA secretary general, echoed with Joscelin, saying that no words can describe his feeling.

"The result here, frankly, is unexpected, because the 100m race is so close," said Oon, adding that they had done many preparations to get good results.

Oon said that this is an "emotional win" for Singapore.

"The result is not only an inspiration, a historical moment for Singapore, but also the best birthday gift for Singapore," he added.

Oon also stressed the importance of Joseph's wonderful performance to the younger generation.

"It's also the one to tell the younger generation the life is about believing, life is about working for something you believe, life is about pursuing your goals, and the outcome will come, and then we can celebrate as a nation," he said.

Baey Yam Keng, Parliamentary Secretary for Culture, Community and Youth, witnessed the historic moment with the country's sporting community, and said, "It's really a great motivation and encouragement, and a great gift for Singapore's birthday."

Baey told the media that he had seen some young swimmers here, who came in and watched the live, and he thought Joseph must be a great inspiration for them.

"I am sure they will do their best, and they will make Singapore proud one day. It's something we can strive towards...work hard for it...you know, nothing is impossible," said Baey.

Gary Tan, assistant national coach of Singapore, spoke highly of Joseph after watching the live, describing this final race as one of Schooling's perfect ones.

"For Joseph, I think it's the start of his journey, I think there is more to come in Tokyo 2020. It's something he can look forward to. Hopefully, more guys will be inspired to go up to get medals," added Tan, a two-time Olympian who retired in 2006 and started coaching in 2008.

Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, as well as many Singaporean leaders conveyed their congratulations to Schooling on Saturday. Some of the leaders also joined the public to celebrate the historic moment for the country. Endit