Tokyo 2020 Games: Meet Our Para-Athletes and Their Coaches

Singapore’s Singapore— Be the Dazzling Landscape at the 2024 Paralympics

The Paralympic Games are the crème‑de‑la‑crème of sport for athletes with physical or intellectual challenges, eating an extra seat next to the Olympics. This year they opened their colourful gates on 24 August 2024, inviting 4,403 competitors from every corner of the globe to battle it out across 22 sports and 23 disciplines until the grand finale on 5 September 2024.

Meet the Golden Trio behind Singapore’s Flagship Team

These 10 star athletes have been riding the highs and lows across the training halls, all the way to the check‑in gym. Together with their trusty coaches, they turned relentless sweat into a stunning showcase of talent and heart.

Lim Li Wei – Elite Para‑Athlete, 400m T53
Chakraborty Arun – Wheelchair Rugby Champion
Elizabeth Chow – Visually‑Impaired Chess Grandmaster
Wei Xian – Para Swimming C4, 200m freestyle
Jian Li – High‑Jump T63 T51 combined
Amelia Tan – Para Powerlifting, 81kg
Ricky Tan – Para Table Tennis, Class 1
Shaniz Khan – Para Running, 5000m T44
Aishah Siddiq – Para Bloke Chants, 60kg
Billy Loro – Bike Frame, B1

Each athlete’s journey is a vivid tapestry: early morning training, the midday push-ups at 09:00, and the nerve‑wobbling final lap that turned into victorious smiles. The coaches, the secret sauce, have weathered the same storm of dedication, and yet their laughter echoes across the stadium.

What’s on the Horizon?

All nations keep their eyes peeled for record‑shattering performances.
The biggest highlight is the finally unlock the gates to the thrilling relay races.
Amid the glitz and glam, there’s the intangible mission of perseverance and passion.

Stay tuned, because Singapore’s athletes are on a mission to turn the world’s expectations fully into delight, sweat, and hope. Their diligence could very well leave a blazing trail across the sport’s history.

Archery

Meet Syahidah Binte Alim: Singapore’s Archery Marvel

Syahidah is the trailblazing woman who’s turned the bow and arrow into her personal ticket to fame—and medals. She’s the first female archer to wear the Singaporean colors on a global stage, bagging two golds right out of the gate at the 8th ASEAN Para Games.

The Story Behind the Bow

At 36, Syahidah is no stranger to challenge. Born with diplegia—a form of cerebral palsy that takes the lower limbs—she’s turned what could be a setback into a superpower. Her dedication has earned her the title of Singapore’s very first world champion archer when she clinched the World Archery Para Championships in the Netherlands.

Personal Best – A Shining Record

Currently ranked World No. 2 Para Archer
2020 Fazza Para Archery World Ranking Tournament – Gold
2019 Asian Para Archery Championships – Gold
2019 World Para World Archery Championships – Gold
2018 Asian Para Games – 5th place
2017 ASEAN Para Games – Gold
2016 Paralympic Games – 7th place

Power Behind the Shots – Coach Pang Qing Liang

Since February 2019, Pang Qing Liang has guided Syahidah from a promising talent to a champion. Previously a national archer himself, Pang unlocked Syahidah’s potential, resulting in a world‑record score at a ranking event and steering her to a championship win after a two‑year wait.

With a bow in hand and a heart that’s as fierce as it is compassionate, Syahidah is proof that resilience can turn arrows into gold. Her journey reminds us that the best stories are the ones you can’t help but root for.

Athletics

Meet the Shooting Star, Muhammad Diroy Bin Noordin

From Short Stature to Sporting Stardom

Born with a condition called short stature, 29‑year‑old Muhammad Diroy didn’t let that stop him from reaching new heights. In 2013 he dove into the world of shot put and field javelin, and by 2016 he was already gracing the international stage.

Golden Beginnings

His debut at the China Open Athletics Championships in 2016 ended in a spectacular gold medal win. “You can’t put a limit on a determined athlete,” Diroy says, chuckling as he recalls the moment.

Paralympic Journeys

2016: Rio de Janeiro Paralympics – 9th place in men’s shot put (F40)
2017: London – 6th place at the World Para Athletics Championships
2017: ASEAN Para Games – silver medal
2018: China Open – gold again
2018: Asian Para Games – 4th place
2019: World Para Athletics Grand Prix Tunisia – silver medal

Flag Bearer Flash

At the Tokyo Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony, Diroy carried the Singapore flag, a proud moment that made the entire team beam with joy.

Coaching: The Guiding Hand

Muhamad Hosni Bin Muhamad has been coaching para‑athletes since 2014. He first guided Suhairi Suhani to an 8th‑place finish in the long jump at the 2016 Paralympics. When he brought Diroy into his team in 2017, the results spoke for themselves, culminating in a 6th‑place finish at the 2019 World Para Athletics Championship.

Living the Dream

Beyond medals, Diroy’s story is about resilience and passion. “I’m not just here to compete; I’m here to inspire anyone who thinks size limits possibility,” he says, grinning at the camera.

With each throw, Diroy reminds us that the biggest hurdle is often the belief that you can’t. He’s showing the world that height isn’t the only indicator of greatness.

Cycling

Meet Singapore’s New Tandem Dream Team

Imagine a world where a pair of cyclists, one blind and one white‑knuckle, ride into the Paralympics like a superhero duo. That world is real, and the heroes are Steve Tee Wee Leong and Ang Kee Meng.

Quick Fact Sheet

Steve’s GOAT moment: Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa back in 2004, but the bike? He only fell in love with it in January 2017.
Co-Motor: Ang Kee Meng, former national cyclist, brings the pedal‑power.
Event Highlights:
- Men’s B Time Trial – Track (1000m)
- Men’s B Individual Pursuit – Track (4000m)
Partner: Covers the whole spectrum from changing clothes to proofreading race results.

Career Highlights

Tunes over the years have kept the duo humming:

2018 Asian Games – 7th place in the Independent Pursuit
2019 & 2020 Para Asian Track Championships – Bronze medals in the IP
2017 ASEAN Para Games – Bronze in the Time Trial

Coaching Corner

Behind every pedal stroke is Athena Han I‑Chia. She juggles science, sensitivity, and two athletes with vision loss. Her knack for blending training with sport‑science has turned a random partnership into a medal‑hot machine.

Why This is Epic

It’s not just about winning medals; it’s about showing that when you pair a bold spirit with a skilled hand, you can defy anything. Steve’s journey from the barber chair to the podium is a full‑length feature for the ages. And Ang? Well, he’s the human‑perfect “back‑up” for that fantastic bike rush.

Watch them roll into the Paralympics, and remember: when two people, each with their own twist, ride in sync, they become a living story that anyone can cheer for.

Equestrian

Meet Gemma Rose Foo: The Equestrian Powerhouse Who Rides on a Mission

From a 10‑Year‑Old Gambler to an Olympic‑Loan Trailblazer

Gemma Rose Foo isn’t just another name on the squad list. If you thought a 10‑year‑old gambler can outshine her, hold onto your hats – Gemma started riding at the tender age of 8, using hippotherapy to battle cerebral palsy. That early spark? It lit a fire that would eventually blaze across the world.

Early Days & First Stages

In 2010, Gemma proudly represented Singapore at the Hope Cup in Taiwan – a big win for a big heartbeat.
She spent her formative years at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Singapore, turning therapy into triumph.
Despite her challenges, her skill kept growing – turning each stride into a statement.

Breaking Barriers at the London Paralympics

Remember the year the world turned its gaze to London? That was 2012, and Gemma was part of the first Asian ParaEquestrian team that shook the stadium. Imagine that – a trailblazer from the East, making waves in a sport dominated by Europeans. Talk about a cultural crossover!

Personal Bests & Rankings

2021 CPEDI3* at Munich‑Riem: Freestyle to Music Test Grade I – 3rd place.
Also in 2021 at Grote‑Brogel: Freestyle to Music Test Grade I – 4th place.
Back in 2016 at the Paralympic Games: Team Test Grade 1a – finished in 9th position, but her spirit? Always first.

Gemma’s Daily Grind

Every day, she trains, perfects her routines, and backs her teammates through Team Tests to Music. She’s not just riding – she’s dancing, harmonizing rhythm and resilience on the saddle.

Why Gemma Rocks

Beyond the medals, Gemma embodies perseverance and passion. She’s proving that the horse’s back is just one part of her legacy; the real power lies in her heart, grit, and the sheer joy she brings to every competition.

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Competing with: Don’s Day Dream (aged 20)

Meet Max Tan: From Sea to Saddle High‑Five!

Picture this: a spirited athlete who once sailed the waves for Singapore, and then carved his own path across the flatland of competitive Equestrianism. Max Tan is that guy.

Early Days on Wheels & Hooves

Age 7: In the perfect time‑turning montage from kiddie to warrior. Max took his first therapeutic riding lessons at RDA Singapore because cerebral palsy was a tough hurdle.
Teenage years: Caught the wind on a sailboat, traveling for the nation at international sailing competitions.
Age 18: “Why not more adventure?” he thought, swapping the sea for a stable.

Paralympic Showdown

2012 London: Team Test – Grade 2 (10th place)
2016 Rio: Team Test – Grade 2 (10th place again)
Both times, Max rode with the heart of a champion.

Personal Best Blitz (the moment we all cheer)

2021 CPEDI3* Grote‑Brogel: Freestyle to Music – Grade II – slipped into 3rd place (yeah, that’s a podium finish!).
2016 Paralympic Games dump: 10th in Team Test Grade 2 (not cheating, just fighting the same tough field).

Why All the Love?

Max’s journey is less about the trophies and more about the grit. From the rough waters of sailing to the saddle‑back ways, he’s shown that limits are just the start of a new challenge. His story shines a spotlight on perseverance, adaptability, and a dash of fun—a recipe that inspires us all.

Laurentia Tan Yen-Yi

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In Tokyo, competing with: Banestro (aged 10). Typically competes with Fuerst Sherlock and Banestro.

Laurentia Tan: Pioneering Champion of Paralympic Equestrian

Laurentia Tan made history at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics as the first Asian woman to win a medal in equestrian sports. Fast forward to 2012 London – she was the sole medalist for Malaysia and a true legend in the arena.

Early Life & Challenges

Cerebral palsy that turned everyday standing into a unique stride.
Profound deafness that meant she won’t hear the hoofbeats – but she still knew the rhythm.
Horse riding became the therapy that transformed medical obstacles into a thrilling sport.

Acknowledgements & Medals

2008 – Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (Public Service Medal) for the Beijing bronze.
2012 – Bintang Bakti Masyarakat (Service Star) after London’s silver medal haul.

Career Highlights

2021 – CPEDI3* Grote-Brogel: Individual Championship Test Grade I – 1st place.
2021 – CPEDI3* Grote-Brogel: Freestyle to Music Test Grade I – 1st place.
2018 – World Equestrian Games: Individual Championship Test Grade I – Silver.
2014 – World Equestrian Games: Individual Championship Test Grade 1a – Bronze.
2012 – Paralympic Games: Individual Freestyle Test Grade 1a – Silver.
2012 – Paralympic Games: Individual Championship Test Grade 1a – Bronze.
2010 – World Equestrian Games (Kentucky, USA) – 5th place.
2008 – Paralympic Games: Individual Freestyle Test Grade 1a – Bronze.

Coaching Support

Laurentia’s trusted coach (name not disclosed in the source) has been the co‑pilot on her triumphant journey.

Legacy and Inspiration

With courage, determination, and a sprinkle of swagger, Laurentia didn’t just break barriers – she rode past them, carving a path for future riders of bravery. Her story reminds us that whether on the saddle or facing life’s bumps, only the bold heart wins the ride.

Meet Jorg Alexander Volker Roger Eubel: The Horse Whisperer You’ll Never Forget

Why He’s the Go-To Guru of the Equestrian World

Since 2008, Volker’s been in the trenches with Laurentia, sniffing out the perfect matchmaking between horse and rider. Where others see hooves and humans, he sees the dream team waiting to hit the arena.

What He Brings to the Field

Owns a top‑tier dressage training stable that turns nervous newbies into ballroom dancers in breezy boots.
Serves as a Grand Prix level judge, making sure every trot, jump, and pirouette stays sharp and fair.

His Secret Sauce: Finding the Right Pair

Volker’s aim? To connect the right horse with the right rider—like a great dating app, but with saddles and a lot more gallop. When that spark hits, the arena literally shivers with excitement.

Powerlifting

Meet Nur ’Aini Binte Mohamad Yasli – The Iron‑Strong Woman of 45 kg

Imagine a 29‑year‑old champion who lifts an extra 81 kg of pure power with a smile on her face, all while battling multiple epiphyseal dysplasia. That’s our powerhouse, Nur ’Aini Binte Mohamad Yasli, who dove into the world of para‑powerlifting thanks to a little push from Team Singapore’s own Kalai Vanen.

Competitive Highlights

2017 – Made her debut at the 9th ASEAN Para Games.
2019 – Dropped in at 5th place in the Women’s U45 kg at the 10th Fazza Dubai World Cup.
2018 – Finished 4th at the Asian Para Games.
2021 – Clinched a bronze medal at the 11th Fazza Dubai Para Powerlifting World Cup.

Personal Best Moment

She lifted an astonishing 81 kg, landing her a bronze medal at the 11th Fazza Dubai event. That lift was the result of a big 16 kg personal‑best improvement—thanks to a mighty coaching duo.

Behind the Scenes: Coach Muhammad Abdul Razak Bin Mansor

In 2018, Coach Razak was the mastermind behind Nur ’Aini’s game plan.

Guided her and Kalai Vanen to qualify for the 2018 Asian Para Games.
Championed her upgrades for the 2019 World Para Powerlifting Championships.
Bang! She helped Nur ’Aini boost her personal best by a whopping 16 kg—leaving a clear path to Tokyo’s Paralympics.

If you’re looking for a real story of grit, strength, and a splash of humour—a woman who conquers more than just the bench—then Nur ’Aini is the name to remember.

Swimming

Yip Pin Xiu

Ever seen a champion who swims her way into history? Yip Pin Xiu is that swimmer. Born with Charcot‑Marie‑Tooth, a tough neuromuscular condition, yet she’s not just a survivor – she’s a record‑breaking, gold‑medal‑loving SVG star in the world’s biggest Paralympic stage.

Competitive Highlights

World Record holder in Women’s 50 m & 100 m Backstroke S2
Gold at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships (both 50 m and 100 m events)
Olympic gold duo at the 2016 Games – backstroke champion in S2
Bronze at the 2018 Commonwealth Games (women’s 50 m freestyle S3)
Silver in the same freestyle event at the 2008 Paralympic Games
Continues to chase the gold at the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics

With a splash of talent and a dash of courage, Yip’s next lap is all about defending her hard‑earned titles while proving that a little muscle work goes a long way in making history.

Toh Wei Soong

Talk about a transformation: Toh Wei Soong started swimming at six as a little therapy and turned into a world‑class competitor. Fancy a bit of “scientific” background: he was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord. Turns out, water might be the best therapy.

Competitive Highlights

Bronze medalist at the 2018 Commonwealth Games (Men’s 50 m freestyle S7)
Gold in 50 m freestyle and 100 m freestyle at the 2018 Asian Para Games (S7)
Gold in 50 m and 100 m freestyle events at the 2017 ASEAN Para Games (S7)
Top eight finish at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships in 50 m butterfly and freestyle (S7)
Won Singapore’s 2019 World Para Swimming World Series 100 m freestyle gold

Wei Soong’s story reminds us that the best soaps of the world are made from practice, perseverance, and a splash of determination.

Sophie Soon Jin Wen

Sophie is not only a Paralympic swimmer but also a violin virtuoso and eye‑artist, living life with a full board – she’s a Grade 8 violinist and has even shared the stage with The Sam Willows at a President’s Star Charity Show. Diagnosed with cone‑rod dystrophy, she turns her vision challenges into visual victories.

Competitive Highlights

Three gold medals at the 2015 SPH National Para‑Swimming Championships
Represented Singapore at the 2015 ASEAN Para Games
Top eight finishes in 100 m breaststroke SB12 at the 2018 Asian Para Games
Top eight finisher in the same breaststroke event at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships
Competed in her first Paralympic Games in 2024

From strings to swimming lanes, Sophie proves that one’s talents can flow as smoothly as water – no matter what’s on the surface.

Coaching Team Spotlight

Behind every splash is a dream team of coaches who shape the athletes’ journeys. Though details aren’t listed here, the support staff behind Yip, Wei, and Sophie are integral to their continued success and resilience in the pool.

Singapore’s Superstars: From Golds to Paralympics

In the world of swimming, Singapore has never shied away from making waves—both literally and figuratively. Below is a quick rundown of the nation’s most iconic swimmers and the brilliant coaches who turned talent into gold.

Ang Peng Siong – The Speed King

Nothing beats the thrill of a world number one in the 50 m freestyle—Ang led the pack in the 80s.
His gold‑stoned résumé boasts eight SEA Game titles spanning a decade (1983‑1993).
He’s the legend who taught Singapore that you can sprint your way to glory.

Michael Massey – The Mentoring Maestro

Coaching is all about inspiration, and Massey is the mastermind behind Singapore’s three Rio Paralympic medals.
He guided Yip Pin Xiu and Theresa Goh to podium finish, ending a 17‑year medal drought for the latter.
Turns out, a good coach is like a life‑jacket that keeps athletes buoyant even in tough waters.

Mark Chay Jung Jun – The Seasoned Veteran

From five SEA Games to two Olympics, his experience is a treasure trove.
He famously steered Yip Pin Xiu to victory at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships.
What’s remarkable? He turned swimming pools into running tracks for triumph.

Tan Joo Seng Roland – The Para‑Swim Guru

Roland is a force in the para‑swimming community, mentoring athletes to qualify for major competitions.
His focus has produced a cohort of swimmers ready to break records and hearts alike.
He proves that coaching isn’t merely about speed—it’s about making every ripple count.

For a close look at how a para‑equestrian overcame muscle pulls to finish strong in Rio, you’ll want to read the full feature on Wonderwall.sg.

Singapore’s Singapore— Be the Dazzling Landscape at the 2024 Paralympics

Meet the Golden Trio behind Singapore’s Flagship Team

What’s on the Horizon?

Archery

Meet Syahidah Binte Alim: Singapore’s Archery Marvel

The Story Behind the Bow

Personal Best – A Shining Record

Power Behind the Shots – Coach Pang Qing Liang

Athletics

Meet the Shooting Star, Muhammad Diroy Bin Noordin

From Short Stature to Sporting Stardom

Golden Beginnings

Paralympic Journeys

Flag Bearer Flash

Coaching: The Guiding Hand

Living the Dream

Cycling

Meet Singapore’s New Tandem Dream Team

Quick Fact Sheet

Career Highlights

Coaching Corner

Why This is Epic

Equestrian

Meet Gemma Rose Foo: The Equestrian Powerhouse Who Rides on a Mission

From a 10‑Year‑Old Gambler to an Olympic‑Loan Trailblazer

Early Days & First Stages

Breaking Barriers at the London Paralympics

Personal Bests & Rankings

Gemma’s Daily Grind

Why Gemma Rocks

Tan Chern Maximillian

Competing with: Don’s Day Dream (aged 20)

Meet Max Tan: From Sea to Saddle High‑Five!

Early Days on Wheels & Hooves

Paralympic Showdown

Personal Best Blitz (the moment we all cheer)

Why All the Love?

Laurentia Tan Yen-Yi

In Tokyo, competing with: Banestro (aged 10). Typically competes with Fuerst Sherlock and Banestro.

Laurentia Tan: Pioneering Champion of Paralympic Equestrian

Early Life & Challenges

Acknowledgements & Medals

Career Highlights

Coaching Support

Legacy and Inspiration

Meet Jorg Alexander Volker Roger Eubel: The Horse Whisperer You’ll Never Forget

Why He’s the Go-To Guru of the Equestrian World

What He Brings to the Field

His Secret Sauce: Finding the Right Pair

Powerlifting

Meet Nur ’Aini Binte Mohamad Yasli – The Iron‑Strong Woman of 45 kg

Competitive Highlights

Personal Best Moment

Behind the Scenes: Coach Muhammad Abdul Razak Bin Mansor

Swimming

Yip Pin Xiu

Competitive Highlights

Toh Wei Soong

Competitive Highlights

Sophie Soon Jin Wen

Competitive Highlights

Coaching Team Spotlight

Singapore’s Superstars: From Golds to Paralympics

Ang Peng Siong – The Speed King

Michael Massey – The Mentoring Maestro

Mark Chay Jung Jun – The Seasoned Veteran

Tan Joo Seng Roland – The Para‑Swim Guru

Related News

Meet Nur ’Aini Binte Mohamad Yasli – The Iron‑Strong Woman of 45 kg