Eddy Bernard Scores Malaysia’s First Medal at Paris Paralympics

During the recent 2024 Summer Olympics, badminton star Lee Zii Jia and badminton duo Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik made the country proud by winning two bronze medals for the country. Today (2 September), Eddy Bernard has made Malaysia proud by bagging a bronze medal in the T44 men’s 100m race, making him Malaysia’s first medallist at the Paris Paralympics.

As reported by The Star, the 23-year-old, who hails from Beluran, Sabah, completed the race in 11.58s at the Stade de France Stadium. Additionally, he broke the old Asian record of 11.75s set by Sri Lanka’s Indika Gamage at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, in May.

Mpumelelo Mhlongo from South Africa won gold with a time of 11.12s, while Luis Vives Suares from Cuba took silver by recording 11.20s.

Eddy was born with a condition where some of his fingers are fused and with a smaller right leg. He started representing Malaysia in 2017.

Speaking to The Borneo Post, Eddy said, “When I see what able-bodied people can do, I can do it too. I always try to stay positive. Sometimes, I do feel down, but I try to focus on other things to stay positive, (and) not to think negatively.”

He also felt confident that he could deliver the country’s first medal on the fourth day of the Paralympics. Eddy, who is the youngest of six siblings, said that his coach, Hamberi Mahat, helped to fuel his desire for success, “Coach said just go for it, don’t overthink, just focus on yourself,”

Eddy, who previously won silver at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships, also dedicated the bronze medal to his family, coach Hamberi, and his friends for all their support.

Congratulations, Eddy and thank you for making Malaysia proud!

Featured Image Credit: Bernama