SEA Games Debutant Avvir Tham, takes Team Singapore’s 1st medal in Hanoi!

(Team Singapore's Avvir Tham, after winning his Silver medal. Photo Credit : Andy Chua/SportSG)

By Jeremy Lee

Somersaulting, twisting and then plunging into cool water, Team Singapore diver Avvir Tham showed nerves of steel to take the silver in the Men’s Individual 1 metre Springboard final at the Aquatic Sports Palace, National Sports Complex, Hanoi, Vietnam.

(Team Singapore's Avvir Tham, completing a total of 6 dives. Photo Credit : Andy Chua/SportSG)

On 9 May, the 17 year old teen lost out on the gold medal to defending SEA Games champion Ooi Tze Liang, while Malaysia's Bertrand Rhodict Anak Lises took the bronze. Reflecting on his performance, Avvir said that he had to get used to diving boards in Vietnam which were softer than those in Singapore. Despite that, he said that he managed to adapt in time and is looking forward to more competitions in the future.

When asked about specifics he replied: “I’m definitely looking forward to the Olympics in 2024…there are a lot of competitions pushed back like (the) Asian Games and World Youth Games so I will just try to upgrade my difficulty of dives and move forward.”

“And try to win first place at next year’s SEA Games,” he added cheekily.

The 31st SEA Games is held in Hanoi, Vietnam from 12 to 23 May 2022. For the latest Team Singapore coverage and news, follow Team Singapore on their social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) or visit the official Team Singapore website.