Mexico and Canada Diving Events Crucial for Pandelela’s Beijing Ambitions: Ken Nee

Kuala Lumpur: New national diving technical director Yeoh Ken Nee is optimistic about Datuk Pandelela Rinong’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 Diving World Cup Super Final in Beijing. Pandelela, who last competed in the 2024 Malaysia Open, needs to finish among the top 12 in the women’s 10-metre platform event in upcoming competitions in Guadalajara, Mexico, and Windsor, Canada, to secure her spot in the Beijing event scheduled for May.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ken Nee emphasized the importance of Pandelela’s potential participation in Beijing, highlighting the opportunity it presents for her to rebuild her reputation. Pandelela, a two-time Olympic medallist, faced setbacks last year, including missing the 2024 Paris Olympics after a challenging performance at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha.

Ken Nee also mentioned that Pandelela will be supported by Enrique Maccartney Harold in Guadalajara. However, Enrique faces visa issues and will not travel to Windsor. Ken Nee expressed the need for Enrique to prove his capabilities on the international stage, as his local successes have not yet translated globally.

Ken Nee identified potential reasons for Enrique’s challenges, such as nerves, stress, or lack of preparation for international competitions. He encouraged Enrique to take charge of his performance, emphasizing that despite the support from the coaching team, the responsibility ultimately lies with the athlete.