Malaysian runner dies while competing in Swansea half-marathon
Friday, 28 Jun 20197:05 PM MYT
by bernard cheah
PETALING JAYA: A 21-year-old Malaysian collapsed and died while competing in the Swansea Half Marathon in Swansea, Wales last Sunday (June 23).
The victim, identified as Wil Sern Ong, collapsed just metres from the finish line of the 21km event in Adelaide Street at about 13:20 BST (about 8.20pm local time) on Sunday.
BBC reported that Ong was taken to the Morriston Hospital after first-aid providers had tried to revive him.
He was studying environmental engineering at the Swansea University.
The BBC also noted that this is the second time Ong had participated in the event, having complete the 21km half marathon in 2018.
Ong, who came from Petaling Jaya, was a sergeant in the 12th Kuala Lumpur Boys' Brigade in Malaysia before leaving to study in Swansea.
BBC quoted Ong's family as saying, "We are so heartbroken by the sudden and tragic passing of Wil Sern Ong.
"No words could express how sad and painful it is for the family and all those who knew him.
"(Ong) was a rare gem to find, well-versed in God's word, spiritually matured beyond his years, so full of life, well mannered, helpful and kind.
"In the short span of nearly 21 years, he had impacted and inspired so many."
Several of Ong's friends have written on his Facebook page, saying how much he had inspired them.
Nicholas Yeap wrote that Ong was the one who encouraged him during his journey in the Boys' Brigade.
"He was one of the very few who speak to me like a friend yet respect me as his Captain," Yeap wrote.
Yeap added that Ong used to constantly think of how he could do better and was always willing to help others out when needed.
The Malaysian Association of Swansea University (Masu) also extended its condolences to Ong's family and friends.
In a statement undersigned by its current and incoming presidents Matthew Johnny Kulai and Low Su Yi, Masu said that Ong, a former secretary, was someone who was deeply trusted and relied upon during his time as a committee member.
"His legacy of service and charm will be remembered, and he will be forever missed," MASU noted.
Read more at https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/06/28/malaysian-runner-dies-while-competing-in-swansea-half-marathon/#3aZwsbGxjKVR4OxK.99
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