Kuala Lumpur: Mohd Adib Iqbal Abdullah lay sprawled on the ground at the National Aquatics Centre in Bukit Jalil, grimacing in pain as he stretched out a cramped left leg.
Adib had just helped Malaysia win silver in the 4x100m freestyle S14 (learning disability) event at the Kuala Lumpur Asean Para Games today.
But while other athletes were surrounded by family and loved ones, the Kuching-born swimmer was here on his own.
"My parents couldn't be here. My father is a fisherman while my mother is taking care of my four other brothers and sisters at home in Sarawak," said the 18-year-old.
"I gave it everything I had, I pushed hard until my leg cramped. I gave it 100 per cent but I am not happy," said the Sarawakian.
"I wanted the gold, I wanted to make my parents proud."
The former SMK Asia Jaya student disclosed that he had started with track and field as a sprinter but moved to swimming after being encouraged by his teacher.
"My teacher asked me if I could swim as it was easier to compete at a higher level in swimming compared to track and field.
"I said of course I can, I am the son of a fisherman.
"I often followed my father to sea. I have to know how to swim."
He won two gold, two silver and two bronze at the Sarawak Paralympiad last year which earned him a spot on the national team.
Adib had earlier won the 100m breaststroke bronze and will compete in his pet event, the 50m freestyle tomorrow.