Olympic Women: Meet The Fencer, Kayaker, And Rower Representing Singapore At The Paris 2024 Games

The Summer Olympics have returned, capturing the world's attention as athletes gather in Paris for the 2024 Games. This year's event, from July 26 to August 11, is significant as it fully embraces the excitement and spectacle subdued during the pandemic-affected Tokyo Games. Known as the "City of Light," Paris sets a stunning backdrop for this celebration of athletic excellence, with iconic venues hosting various sports.

The Paris 2024 Olympics are not just a showcase of extraordinary talent but also a testament to resilience and determination. Athletes from all corners of the globe converge to compete at the topmost level, embodying the spirit of unity and sportsmanship. The event is expected to deliver unforgettable moments, from shattered world records to athletes achieving personal bests while embodying the Olympic motto: "Faster, Higher, Stronger - Together."

Among the global participants, Singapore has sent a strong delegation of 23 athletes, each aiming to make their mark and bring pride to their nation. Some athletes, like sprinter Shanti Pereira, have already become household names, while others are stepping into the international spotlight for the first time. This year, three inspiring women—Amita Berthier, Stephenie Chen, and Saiyidah Aisyah—represent Singapore in fencing, kayaking, and rowing, respectively. Their stories highlight their sporting achievements, journeys, and challenges as elite athletes.

Amita Berthier, Fencing

At just 23 years old, Amita Berthier has made history as the first Singaporean fencer to qualify for the Olympics on merit. Her journey to the Paris Games is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and skill. As a three-time SEA Games champion, Amita has consistently demonstrated her prowess on the fencing piste, earning her a place among the best in the world.

In a recent interview with a prestigious news outlet, Amita showed her intense training regimen. Her days are meticulously planned, starting with a warm-up session that includes stretching, light cardio, and footwork drills—crucial for maintaining agility and quick reflexes. Mornings are dedicated to technical drills, where she hones her skills and strategies. Afternoons are reserved for strength and conditioning sessions, essential for building the physical stamina required for competition. But Amita's preparation extends beyond the physical; she also incorporates mental conditioning into her routine, using visualisation techniques and meditation to concentrate and compose under pressure.

Representing Singapore on a global stage is an honour and a responsibility Amita embraces wholeheartedly. She sees it as an opportunity to showcase her nation's talent and hard work, demonstrating that even a tiny country like Singapore can compete with the best in the world. Amita's pride in her national identity drives her to perform at her best, not just for herself but to inspire others back home. She hopes to encourage young Singaporeans, especially girls, to pursue their passions and excel in whichever field they choose, challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes. 

"Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and I’ve learned that the key to success is to never stop pushing your limits. Fencing is not just about physical skill; it’s a mental game that requires focus, strategy, and composure under pressure. I love the intensity and the thrill of competing at the highest level."

Beyond the Olympics, Amita's aspirations extend to promoting and developing the sport of fencing in Singapore. She aims to inspire the next generation of fencers and contribute to the sport's growth in her country. Additionally, she is passionate about advocating for mental health and resilience in sports, believing that mental well-being is crucial for athletes to reach their full potential.

After the Paris 2024 Olympics, Amita Berthier aims to continue competing at the highest levels of international fencing. She has set her sights on qualifying for future Olympic Games and winning medals on the world stage. Amita is also interested in exploring opportunities to compete in more international tournaments to further hone her skills and experience.

The years and prestigious place where she had played till date;

Saiyidah Aisyah, Rowing

Saiyidah Aisyah's return to the Olympics at 35 is a story of resilience and passion. She debuted at the 2016 Rio Games as Singapore's first Olympic rower. After a brief retirement, she has made a remarkable comeback, proving that age and challenges are no barriers to achieving one's goals. Her journey back to the Olympic stage is particularly significant, as she balances her athletic career with personal aspirations, including starting a family.

In her discussion with a leading publication, Aisyah detailed the disciplined routine that forms the backbone of her preparation. Her day begins early, with breakfast at the Olympic Village and a rowing course trip. She meticulously warms up before hitting the water for her main training session. After a rigorous workout, she cools down and returns to the village, where she may engage in additional physical activities like jogging or cycling to maintain her fitness.

Aisyah emphasises that preparation for the Olympics is not solely about physical conditioning. The mental and emotional aspects are equally crucial, especially in managing the pressures and challenges of competing at such a high level. Aisyah has faced many obstacles, including a rib injury that disrupted her training. However, she views these challenges as opportunities to develop greater mental resilience. She acknowledges female athletes' unique challenges, such as managing hormonal changes and balancing career goals with personal aspirations. For Aisyah, being a female athlete means embracing and using these challenges as a source of strength and motivation.
 
 "Rowing has been my life for as long as I can remember. Even when my body was telling me to stop, my heart couldn’t let go. Coming back to the sport after injury and retirement was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but also one of the most rewarding. It’s not just about winning medals; it’s about proving to myself and others that you can overcome any obstacle with determination and passion. The water is my sanctuary, and every stroke is a testament to my resilience."

Looking beyond the Olympics, Aisyah has a vision for her future that includes empowering other female athletes. She dreams of setting up a business focused on supporting women in sports and hopes to excel in various aspects of her life, including being a wife and potentially a mother. Aisyah's story is a powerful reminder that life is a journey of balancing multiple roles and ambitions, and she is determined to pursue excellence in all areas.

The years and prestigious place where she had played till date;

Stephenie Chen, Kayaking

Stephenie Chen's journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics is a story of perseverance and determination. The 32-year-old kayaker nearly left the sport after narrowly missing qualification for the Tokyo Games. However, her decision to continue pursuing her passion led her to become Singapore's first representative in kayaking at the Olympics in 12 years. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the courage to make bold decisions.

Chen reflected on the significance of representing Singapore at the Olympics in her interview with a renowned news source. For her, it is about personal achievement and showcasing Singapore's competitive spirit on the global stage. She draws strength from her national identity, seeing it as a source of support and motivation. Chen's commitment to her sport is evident in her rigorous training and the mental resilience she has developed over the years. She believes mental toughness is built through consistent training and a supportive environment, which helps athletes stay confident and focused.

"Kayaking is more than just a sport for me; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. The waters can be unpredictable, much like life, and learning to navigate through challenges has been a core part of my experience. Missing out on Tokyo was a wake-up call, reminding me of the importance of dedication and hard work. I've always believed that the real competition is with yourself—pushing past your limits and striving for excellence. Every race is a chance to show the world what you’re made of, and I'm proud to represent Singapore on this incredible stage."

An important moment in Chen's career was her decision to train internationally after missing out on the Tokyo Olympics. This choice required her to take complete control of her training and career, a move that demanded courage and self-belief.

Chen's journey has been challenging, but she remains proud of her decision and progress. She offers candid advice to aspiring athletes, emphasising the importance of hard work and dedication. Chen's message is clear: success in sports requires more than talent; it requires a relentless commitment to improvement and a willingness to embrace challenges.

The years and prestigious place where she had played till date;

As the Paris Games is ongoing, these three athletes—Amita Berthier, Saiyidah Aisyah, and Stephenie Chen—continue to inspire with their stories of grit, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. Their journeys reflect the spirit of the Olympics and the resilience of Singapore's athletes, who proudly represent their nation on the world stage. Each has faced unique challenges and made significant sacrifices to reach this point, embodying the values of hard work, perseverance, and a passion for sports. As they compete in Paris, they carry with them the hopes, faith, and dreams of a nation, and their stories inspire aspiring athletes everywhere.

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