IRFAN Shamsuddin is out for vengeance after the Covid-19 pandemic robbed the discus thrower a chance to improve his national mark and win more medals.
It has been five years since Irfan broke his national record of 62.55m, which he achieved when he won the gold medal at the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Sea Games.
And with a season's best of 61.61, he believes he is getting closer to his record as he eyes a good outing at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games from July 28 to Aug 8.
Covid-19 was a major obstacle for Irfan, who could only manage 58.26 to retain his Sea Games title at this year's Hanoi Games.
Although Irfan, a five-time Sea Games champion, is unbeatable in this region, it will be tough for him to finish on the podium in Birmingham.
In the 2018 Gold Coast edition, Jamaican Fedrick Dacres clinched the gold with a Games record of 68.20, while Irfan failed to record a throw.
"It has been five years since I achieved a personal best.
"The pandemic affected my progress. However, I am not giving up. I want to achieve more.
"I am training harder. I am grateful that Covid-19 restrictions have been eased.
"I am based in Europe and have been travelling to Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Norway and Sweden for competitions.
"It is good exposure as I get to compete against top throwers.
"I think I am in good condition for Birmingham."