By Mei Kuan
Thomas Kok has gained entry into the Malaysia Book of Records for having the most number of first placing in public race walking events, recording a total of 29 first placings.
The presentation of the certificate unfolded at the YMCA Ipoh today with the presence of Deputy Education Minister Dato’ Dr Mah Hang Soon as the guest of honour.
Ipoh Echo spoke to the 77-year-old Thomas who also serves as the Honorary Secretary of YMCA Ipoh to learn more about his inspirational feat.
Overjoyed to be able to celebrate his national achievement with his friends and the board of directors of YMCA Ipoh, Thomas expressed, “I have been participating in race walking events for over 35 years. Prior to that, I was actually a marathon and triathlon runner. I was very active in sports during my school days which included swimming and cycling as well.”
“Some of my friends who carry on with racing and marathon experience knee pain, backache and so on. With race walking, you can keep on going without complaints of body ache or muscle pain because naturally we are just born to walk,” the amiable race walker pointed out.
“When the pandemic hit, I could not take part in any race. However, I do continue my regular training in the evening around the Azlan Shah Hockey Stadium and Indera Mulia Stadium,” he recalled.
He participated in the National Masters just two weeks ago which was held at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur.
He cited his past participation in World Masters in European countries such as the UK, US, Australia and New Zealand as the most memorable.
Present was Dato’ Daniel Tay, the President of YMCA Ipoh.
