Bangkok: National women's shot putter Nani Sahirah Maryata described her gold medal victory at the South East Asian (SEA) Games as a high point in her sports career. Her 16.38 metre throw, which also smashed the national record, was very meaningful, coming at the end of a year of less-than-sterling performances, including that the World University Games (WUG) in Germany in July.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nani expressed that the victory felt like a personal gift after experiencing losses at major championships. At the World University Games and the Asian Throwing Championship in Mokpo, South Korea, she only managed a throw of 14 meters, and at the Asian Athletics Championship, she achieved 15.06 meters. Despite having low expectations, she aimed to surpass her previous performances and was pleasantly surprised by her 16-meter achievement. She shared these thoughts during the medal presentation at Suphachalasai Stadium.

Her throw today broke her national record of 15.39 meters set at the Perlis Open Athletics Championship last year, surpassing Areerat Intadis of Thailand, who threw 16.04 meters, and Huyen Thi Kim of Vietnam, who threw 15.92 meters.

Nani Sahirah also revealed her determination not to squander the last opportunity this year, mentioning that she battled through pain in her hand during the competition. She felt less pressure as she was not considered a gold medal prospect, which perhaps contributed to her outstanding performance.

Looking forward, Nani aims to use this victory as a stepping stone for future sports endeavors, including next year's Commonwealth Games. She has set her sights on reaching a 17-meter throw and competing in the Asian Games, where she will face many of her rivals. The long-term goal remains to excel in these prestigious competitions.