The world of swimming is currently abuzz with the achievements of Bryan Leong, a prodigious talent hailing from Malaysia. The 20-year-old marvel recently garnered widespread attention by setting a new national record on the very first day of the swimming events at the FISU Games held in Chengdu.
Surpassing expectations, Leong clocked an impressive 24.35 seconds in the men’s 50 meters butterfly, edging the Malaysian national record by a mere 0.03 seconds. Reflecting on this accomplishment, a jubilant Leong shared with the Global Times, “The feeling when I touched the wall, realizing my time surpassed the heat was ecstatic. While the leap might seem minuscule, every fraction of a second counts in this sport.”
This recent accolade has solidified Leong’s standing in the realm of swimming. He is now revered as a triple national record holder. Beyond his latest feat, he possesses the records for the 50 meters freestyle and the 100 meters butterfly.
Leong’s journey is as intriguing as his achievements. Currently, he’s based in London, diligently pursuing his bachelor’s studies in the intricate fields of neuroscience and psychology at the prestigious King’s College London. Concurrently, he’s refining his aquatic prowess with the Chelsea and Westminster swimming club. British coach Lisa Bates, renowned in the swimming circuit, is mentoring and guiding him.
Interestingly, swimming wasn’t always Leong’s destined path. As a child, he engaged in swimming merely as a recreational activity. His innate talent caught the eye of a local Malaysian coach during a time when young Leong struggled to complete a 50-meter swim. However, with determination and guidance, he experienced a meteoric rise. Within a short span of nine months, he transitioned from a novice to representing his state in official capacities.
2019 marked a pivotal year for Leong. He made his senior debut representing Malaysia at the Southeast Asian Games. The commitment to his sport means frequent international travels, most recently to the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan. On the challenges of constant travels, Leong said, “I make conscious efforts to adapt, like adjusting my sleep schedules according to the venues. But the upside is experiencing diverse cultures.”
Leong’s trajectory saw another significant milestone when he shattered the Malaysian national record for the 100 meters butterfly, registering a time of 52.96 seconds. This achievement also marked him as the first Malaysian swimmer to breach the 53-second threshold.
Being an admirer of the legendary Michael Phelps, Leong is relentless in his pursuit of excellence. As he gears up for back-to-back competitions in Chengdu, he said, “I aim to surpass my own records at the FISU Games. But the thrill of racing amidst world-class athletes in a foreign land is unparalleled.”
Bryan also expressed his admiration for Chengdu, highlighting its comfort and hospitality. Outside the pool, he wishes to explore the athletes’ village and immerse himself in the local culture, including the renowned hot pot and, of course, visiting the pandas.
His journey in China won’t end in Chengdu. Come September, Bryan Leong will once again represent Malaysia at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. “Though Chengdu is my first official Chinese sojourn, I eagerly await my return for the Asian games,” Leong concluded.
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