Jeralyn Tan Yee Ting is a remarkable boccia player who happens to have cerebral palsy. Despite challenges with motor skills and coordination, she has shown incredible determination and skill. Starting in 2008, Jeralyn has become one of Singapore’s top athletes in the sport.
She has achieved numerous medals in international competitions, including the ASEAN Para Games and the BISFed Chinese Taipei Boccia Regional Open. In 2021, she won a gold medal at the Asian-Oceania Regional Championships in Dubai, marking a significant milestone in her career. As of 2024, Jeralyn is ranked 1st in the world and is the top-ranked female athlete in Asia in her class. She is set to make her debut at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where she will showcase her strategic prowess on the world stage.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I love that boccia is not just a simple game of ‘throwing balls.’ It requires skills, strategic analysis, and adaptability. Boccia has unpredictable moments that keep me on edge. Having a disability may create challenges in life; however, playing boccia levels the playing field for me and my competitors. It empowers me and gives me a sense of achievement when I win. Additionally, I learn new things when competing with others.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“Representing Singapore and flying our national flag is always an honour. It’s my first time at the Paralympic Games, which is the pinnacle of all sporting events. I’m excited to compete, immerse myself in the experience, and enjoy the scenic views of Paris!”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Don’t give up! Never say never before trying something new – and always give it your best when you do.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I love that boccia is not just a simple game of ‘throwing balls.’ It requires skills, strategic analysis, and adaptability. Boccia has unpredictable moments that keep me on edge. Having a disability may create challenges in life; however, playing boccia levels the playing field for me and my competitors. It empowers me and gives me a sense of achievement when I win. Additionally, I learn new things when competing with others.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“Representing Singapore and flying our national flag is always an honour. It’s my first time at the Paralympic Games, which is the pinnacle of all sporting events. I’m excited to compete, immerse myself in the experience, and enjoy the scenic views of Paris!”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Don’t give up! Never say never before trying something new – and always give it your best when you do.”
Daniel Chan Han Siong is an accomplished shooter in the Shooting Para Sport. Despite having a condition known as obstetrical brachial plexus palsy due to an accident at birth, Daniel has risen to prominence with his precision and focus even though the nerves in his left hand are affected.
He was introduced to shooting during National Service (NS) but stopped when he went overseas to pursue his bachelor’s degree. His interest was rekindled later in 2016, after watching the Olympic Games, and that became his inspiration to start shooting again. Holding on to his personal motto, “dreams keep you alive”, Daniel’s dedication to the sport has not just made him a notable figure in the shooting community but to Singapore as well.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“Shooting is a sport that looks really easy; however, the hand-eye coordination and the courage needed to pull the trigger while the pistol is hovering requires focus. I enjoy the challenge it brings.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“The Paralympics is the biggest stage for para-athletes, and it was one of my main goals when I decided to take up shooting seriously. I am therefore very honoured to represent Singapore and fulfil one of my dreams.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Never underestimate the power of a dream. It is never too late to set one, and dreams can keep you motivated and alive. Keep pursuing what you are passionate about; don’t let age or obstacles hold you back.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“Shooting is a sport that looks really easy; however, the hand-eye coordination and the courage needed to pull the trigger while the pistol is hovering requires focus. I enjoy the challenge it brings.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“The Paralympics is the biggest stage for para-athletes, and it was one of my main goals when I decided to take up shooting seriously. I am therefore very honoured to represent Singapore and fulfil one of my dreams.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Never underestimate the power of a dream. It is never too late to set one, and dreams can keep you motivated and alive. Keep pursuing what you are passionate about; don’t let age or obstacles hold you back.”
Gemma Rose Foo is a talented Para-Equestrian who was introduced to the sport through Hippotherapy at RDA Singapore and quickly developed a love for Para-Dressage. So much so, she made her competitive debut in 2008 and has since represented Singapore in various international competitions.
Gemma’s achievements include participating in the 2012 London Paralympic Games and the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. She has continued to excel, placing third in the Freestyle Test Grade I at Pferd International Munchen 2021. She is an inspiration to many with her dedication and success in Para-Equestrian sports.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I love animals, and I find it great that we get to compete together in competitions. We communicate through signals. Horses are very unique creatures! I am so glad I get to ride them.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It is an honour to be representing Singapore at the Paralympic Games. It is even more special that I get to compete on a global stage and showcase my skills.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Go for your dreams and never give up. Remember, it is the journey that makes it worthwhile.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I love animals, and I find it great that we get to compete together in competitions. We communicate through signals. Horses are very unique creatures! I am so glad I get to ride them.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It is an honour to be representing Singapore at the Paralympic Games. It is even more special that I get to compete on a global stage and showcase my skills.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Go for your dreams and never give up. Remember, it is the journey that makes it worthwhile.”
Hilary Su Hui’En is a Para-Equestrian athlete who was born healthy but developed pneumonia at birth, which resulted in Cerebral Palsy right hemiplegia and epilepsy. She started riding as a form of therapy at the age of 15 through Riding for the Disabled and transitioned into competitive riding seven years later, after completing her university studies in psychological science.
Now a full-time competitive athlete, Hilary has faced and overcome numerous challenges, including finding a suitable horse and managing competition nerves. She has achieved personal best scores of over 64% twice in Mannheim and embraces a philosophy that values effort over immediate success. Hilary’s focus remains on surpassing her past performances and thriving in the new and exhilarating environment of a major international competition as she prepares for the upcoming Paralympic Games.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I like that I get to be outdoors and in the countryside, surrounded by horses. When I ride, I feel an adrenaline rush, especially when I go into the trot!”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“I worked hard all these years to improve in my sport to represent my country. I feel it is an honour to be selected for this global event. I look forward to making more memories and experiencing the environment at the Paralympics.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“It is possible to overcome whatever challenges and difficulties that we may face through our disability, to be able to perform in a sport we are interested in. I get motivated through the strong support system from my teammates and parents, who have been very supportive throughout my riding journey.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I like that I get to be outdoors and in the countryside, surrounded by horses. When I ride, I feel an adrenaline rush, especially when I go into the trot!”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“I worked hard all these years to improve in my sport to represent my country. I feel it is an honour to be selected for this global event. I look forward to making more memories and experiencing the environment at the Paralympics.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“It is possible to overcome whatever challenges and difficulties that we may face through our disability, to be able to perform in a sport we are interested in. I get motivated through the strong support system from my teammates and parents, who have been very supportive throughout my riding journey.”
Sophie Soon was diagnosed with cone-rod dystrophy, a condition that causes deteriorating vision that may eventually lead to blindness. Despite her visual impairment, Sophie has excelled in both sports and music, achieving Grade 8 in violin and performing with The Sam Willows at the 2014 President’s Star Charity Show.
She has focused on swimming, winning three gold medals at the 2015 SPH National Para-Swimming Championship and making her international debut at the 2015 ASEAN Para Games. Sophie made her Paralympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, finishing 4th in the Women’s 100m Breaststroke SB12. She won her first world championship title at the Madeira 2022 World Para Swimming Championships, earning silver and setting a new personal best. Sophie’s achievements include winning gold and silver medals at the ASEAN Para Games and the World Para Swimming Championships. She lives by the philosophy of treating others with kindness and respect, regardless of the circumstances.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“When I swim, I feel a sense of independence and freedom which I never get to experience on land. When I’m walking about, I’m always either relying on my guide dog, a white cane, or a sighted guide to assist me in my mobility. But when I swim, I do it all on my own, and I love that I get a moment of freedom by myself.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“For me at least, I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to the exhilarating feeling of representing Singapore at the Paralympics! To race at the highest level of competition in the world is something I will never take for granted.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“A quote I strongly live by is ‘Never afraid to be afraid.’ This means we shouldn’t let our emotions and fears in the current moment stop us from what we really want to do. Not to say we should all be robots and live life with no fear, but more so, acknowledge our emotions and tell ourselves ‘I can continue even when I feel this way.’”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“When I swim, I feel a sense of independence and freedom which I never get to experience on land. When I’m walking about, I’m always either relying on my guide dog, a white cane, or a sighted guide to assist me in my mobility. But when I swim, I do it all on my own, and I love that I get a moment of freedom by myself.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“For me at least, I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to the exhilarating feeling of representing Singapore at the Paralympics! To race at the highest level of competition in the world is something I will never take for granted.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“A quote I strongly live by is ‘Never afraid to be afraid.’ This means we shouldn’t let our emotions and fears in the current moment stop us from what we really want to do. Not to say we should all be robots and live life with no fear, but more so, acknowledge our emotions and tell ourselves ‘I can continue even when I feel this way.’”
Toh Wei Soong discovered swimming at six as a form of therapy for his condition, Transverse Myelitis, a rare condition he was diagnosed with at two years old. In the water, he found freedom and equality, which ignited his passion for the sport.
Wei Soong’s talent and dedication led to his historic achievement as the first para-athlete to win a Bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Balancing rigorous training with his NUS studies in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, Wei Soong is set to complete his degree this year. Under the guidance of Coach Ang Peng Siong, who has been with him since he started competitive swimming, Wei Soong has thrived with a programme that includes sports science and medicine support, making him a true inspiration in the world of Para swimming.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I like that swimming challenges me to be the best version of myself I can. It forces me to be disciplined, and it makes me want to strive to be better. It makes me happy when I complete a good training session or when I hit a new benchmark and reach a new high in my career. There is a sense of achievement, a sense that I’ve gone somewhere which I haven’t gone before. That keeps me in the sport.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It means a lot to be here for another Paralympic Games. I still remember the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where there were no spectators and it was my first time going to an event of this calibre. Truly, it is one of its kind, so I am very happy to be part of this for a second time.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“We only have so much time, so you have to be smart about how you want to approach your goals in life. Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance so you can learn the skills you need and get to where you want.
Yet at the same time, don’t forget to take a break. Don’t forget to take things one at a time sometimes, and don’t put too much on your plate. For overachievers, that may be difficult; however, letting the rest go for the moment really helps you sustain your self-motivation.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I like that swimming challenges me to be the best version of myself I can. It forces me to be disciplined, and it makes me want to strive to be better. It makes me happy when I complete a good training session or when I hit a new benchmark and reach a new high in my career. There is a sense of achievement, a sense that I’ve gone somewhere which I haven’t gone before. That keeps me in the sport.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It means a lot to be here for another Paralympic Games. I still remember the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where there were no spectators and it was my first time going to an event of this calibre. Truly, it is one of its kind, so I am very happy to be part of this for a second time.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“We only have so much time, so you have to be smart about how you want to approach your goals in life. Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance so you can learn the skills you need and get to where you want.
Yet at the same time, don’t forget to take a break. Don’t forget to take things one at a time sometimes, and don’t put too much on your plate. For overachievers, that may be difficult; however, letting the rest go for the moment really helps you sustain your self-motivation.”
Yip Pin Xiu began swimming at the age of five. She made history at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games by winning Singapore’s first Paralympic gold medal. Pin Xiu continued her success at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, winning two gold medals and setting world records in the Women’s 50m and 100m Backstroke S2 events. She has achieved multiple gold and silver medals at the World Para Swimming Championships, the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, the Asian Para Games, and the ASEAN Para Games.
Pin Xiu has consistently demonstrated her hard work in Para swimming in various international competitions. She was conferred the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Meritorious Service Medal) in 2016 and named Sportswoman of the Year at the Singapore Disability Sports Award in 2019, showcasing her skills and determination in various international competitions.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“It gives me a huge sense of freedom. Being in the water, I feel like everybody else, and I think being able to feel like that as a child really made my life very different.
I also like pushing myself to the limits, trying to beat the times that I was doing last week or even yesterday. That feeling really motivates me.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It would be my fifth Paralympics, and it really means a lot to me to be able to represent Singapore at this highest pinnacle of para sports. It is truly an honour and privilege that I value, and I know that my goal is to go there and do my very best and to represent Singapore well.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Don’t be afraid of the big picture of your life goals. Take every day as it comes. Then every single day, find that bit of improvement you can do which will lead you to your goals. And when you achieve things, little by little, step by step, I think it helps you to reach the big goals easier and faster.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“It gives me a huge sense of freedom. Being in the water, I feel like everybody else, and I think being able to feel like that as a child really made my life very different.
I also like pushing myself to the limits, trying to beat the times that I was doing last week or even yesterday. That feeling really motivates me.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It would be my fifth Paralympics, and it really means a lot to me to be able to represent Singapore at this highest pinnacle of para sports. It is truly an honour and privilege that I value, and I know that my goal is to go there and do my very best and to represent Singapore well.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Don’t be afraid of the big picture of your life goals. Take every day as it comes. Then every single day, find that bit of improvement you can do which will lead you to your goals. And when you achieve things, little by little, step by step, I think it helps you to reach the big goals easier and faster.”
Nur Syahidah Alim is a top-notch Para archer who made history by being the first female archer to compete for Singapore at the Paralympic Games.
Syahidah has been winning big at international competitions, including the ASEAN Para Games and the World Archery Para Championships, where she became Singapore’s first world champion in 2019. She is not just an athlete; she is also a leader in the Para sports community, taking on roles like Chairperson of the Singapore Para Athletes Commission. Syahidah’s dedication and success in archery make her a real inspiration in the world of Para sports.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“What I really love about archery is being able to hit my arrows at the centre of my target. It gives me a sense of achievement and satisfaction.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It is a great honour to be representing Singapore for the Paralympics. I am also excited to be part of this global event. Not only am I excited to see how much I have progressed as an archer, I am also excited to showcase my archery abilities in hopes to inspire others.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Always remember that determination and perseverance are key. No matter the obstacles or challenges, just keep pushing forward and believe in your dreams. Every small step counts, and your journey can inspire others too! Together, we can all achieve greatness and show that nothing is impossible.”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“What I really love about archery is being able to hit my arrows at the centre of my target. It gives me a sense of achievement and satisfaction.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It is a great honour to be representing Singapore for the Paralympics. I am also excited to be part of this global event. Not only am I excited to see how much I have progressed as an archer, I am also excited to showcase my archery abilities in hopes to inspire others.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“Always remember that determination and perseverance are key. No matter the obstacles or challenges, just keep pushing forward and believe in your dreams. Every small step counts, and your journey can inspire others too! Together, we can all achieve greatness and show that nothing is impossible.”
Laurentia Tan is a remarkable Para equestrian athlete who has achieved great success despite her disability. Born with cerebral palsy and profound deafness, Laurentia has shown immense resilience and passion for her sport.
She won bronze medals at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games and was Singapore’s sole medallist at the London 2012 Paralympics, becoming the first Asian woman to win a medal in equestrian sport at the Paralympic Games. In recognition of her achievements, Laurentia was awarded the Pingat Bakti Masyarakat in 2008 and the Bintang Bakti Masyarakat in 2012. With several Paralympic appearances, she has collected 1 silver and 3 bronze medals and has qualified for the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I love horses. I feel blessed and grateful that I can ride and spend time with them. I love the people that work with them too. I may not be able to run, but on a horse, I feel we can fly; I may not be able to dance on my own two feet, but together, we can do ballet.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It is always an honour and a privilege to be selected to represent Singapore, especially on a global stage like the Paralympics. I hope that with Coco (aka Hickstead), we can show the world what we can achieve and make Singapore proud.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“In life, there will be ups and downs, but if we focus on the positives, what we love and enjoy, they will help us through the negatives. It’s not about what happens to you; it’s more about how you handle it. Life is not about the destination; it’s the journey and finding the positives along the way!”
What do you like most about your sport? How does it make you feel?
“I love horses. I feel blessed and grateful that I can ride and spend time with them. I love the people that work with them too. I may not be able to run, but on a horse, I feel we can fly; I may not be able to dance on my own two feet, but together, we can do ballet.”
What does it mean to you to represent Singapore at the Paralympics, and how does it feel to be a part of this global event?
“It is always an honour and a privilege to be selected to represent Singapore, especially on a global stage like the Paralympics. I hope that with Coco (aka Hickstead), we can show the world what we can achieve and make Singapore proud.”
What message of encouragement and motivation would you like to share with others who look up to you?
“In life, there will be ups and downs, but if we focus on the positives, what we love and enjoy, they will help us through the negatives. It’s not about what happens to you; it’s more about how you handle it. Life is not about the destination; it’s the journey and finding the positives along the way!”
Here’s How To Support Our Paralympians
Our Paralympians embody the spirit of perseverance and excellence. They are an inspiration to all of us as they overcome their disabilities and excel in their chosen sports!
Join us in cheering them on. Contribute to their journey through the Singapore National Paralympic Council’s fundraiser on Giving.sg.
Let’s come together as a community to uplift and empower our athletes, helping them achieve their dreams and inspire future generations.
Join us in cheering them on. Contribute to their journey through the Singapore National Paralympic Council’s fundraiser on Giving.sg.
Let’s come together as a community to uplift and empower our athletes, helping them achieve their dreams and inspire future generations.
