Pagiel Sng: The Skating Star Who’s Turning Singapore Into a Choreographic Playground
Can you glide over the ice without flailing, spin like a ballerina, and maybe even throw in a jump or two? If you’re wondering, the answer is a resounding Yes!
Meet Pagiel Sng (yes, that name rolls off the tongue like a well‑tuned skate blade). At 18, he just bagged a gold medal at the inaugural SEA Open Figure Skating Trophy, becoming the first Singaporean male to earn a spot at the prestigious ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships. Let’s dive into his life on ice, his playlist secrets, and his eyes set on the 2026 Winter Olympics.
How Did Skating Become His Passion?
I grew up in Denmark, and at the age of three I hooked onto a pair of skates the moment I spotted my brothers glide across that icy deck. Fast forward ten years back to Singapore—there’s really only me still doing that dance over the rink.
For me, skating isn’t just a sport; it’s an outlet that lets me belt out music while moving with pure freedom.
What Tunes Keep Him on Ice?
- His skating playlist is a rainbow: K‑pop, classical, rap—a little bit of everything.
- During training, K‑pop dominates to keep the energy high.
- For competitions, he bleeds a different genre—just to stay laser‑focused.
- Every routine starts with a soundtrack; the choreography follows the story behind the song.
That Jaw‑Dropping Routine at SEA Open – How Tough Was It?
Honestly, it was the hardest routine I’ve ever tackled. I hadn’t even mastered it by the time the competition came around. But, don’t expect a strict diet—I simply eat what I like, in moderation—no junk food binges. I keep my body honest and my mind sharp.
Travelling and Skating: A Two‑Way Street
Every ice tour translates into a cultural adventure. Whether it’s exploring new cultures or rubbing elbows with international athletes, each stop sparks fresh inspiration.
My favourite destination has to be Lake Placid, New York. The mountains and the rushing river form a tranquil backdrop that perfectly balances breathtaking scenes and unforgettable camaraderie.
Gaming: An Alternate Outlet
Two games rule my leisure time:
- Rainbow Six Siege – tactical shooter with a dash of strategy.
- World of Warships – a throwback to WWII naval history.
While I’ve toyed with the idea of streaming, my enthusiasm for gaming dips more quickly than my muscle memory for skating. Skating keeps me mentally anchored.
National Service: When Will He Put His Skates in Storage?
He plans to enlist once he completes his diploma in 2025–2026 (possibly 2027 if he extends for two years). Until then, his dream is crystal clear: compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics, then take a breather for service but continue training to hit full speed post‑service—provided his body says “yes.”
What’s Next on His Skateboard?
- Training for the Asian Open – December.
- Junior World Championships – February.
- Four Continents Championships – March.
- 2026 Milan Winter Olympics – the grand finale.
From Denmark to Singapore, from K‑pop to the Olympic podium, Pagiel Sng is skating his way to a bright future. Stay tuned; his journey is just getting started.
