Pin Xiu triumphs at Rio once again!
Many Singaporeans woke up early today to witness 24-year-old Paralympian Yip Pin Xiu bag a second gold medal in the Olympic Aquatics Stadium in Rio - this time in the 50m backstroke S2 final. She clocked 1min 00.33sec, ahead of China's Feng Yazhu (1:02.66) and Ukraine's Iryna Sotska (1:17.22). She also goes into the history books as the first Singaporean to win multiple gold medals at the Paralympic Games.
The remarkable achievement follows the first gold medal which the final-year SMU Social Sciences student achieved last week when she broke the world record time to win the 100m backstroke (S2) final.
Congratulations, Pin Xiu! You have shown the world that with tenacity and hard work, a little red dot like Singapore can succeed against all odds!
"Heartiest congratulations Pin Xiu on your outstanding performance in Rio at the 2016 Summer Paralympics – swimming to not only win three medals, but also to set a world record on your way! You have proven that nothing is impossible for those with courage, confidence and the will to win. We look forward to welcoming you back and celebrating your remarkable success with you."
- Professor Arnoud De Meyer, SMU President
“Congratulations on your second gold medal this morning, Pin Xiu! Your remarkable achievement at Rio has inspired many Singaporeans, as well as your fellow students at SMU. You have reminded us that with fortitude and resolve, nothing is impossible. We are so proud of you!”
- Professor Lily Kong, SMU Provost
"Pin Xiu, your hard work, conviction, and determination, as demonstrated in your wonderful success in Rio, serve as a model for us all. The touching story of your optimism, kindness and remarkable achievements against all odds will inspire generations to come. We at SOSS, together with the rest of SMU and the whole of Singapore, share the joy of your victory and are so proud of you.."
- Professor James Tang, Dean, SMU School of Social Sciences (SOSS)
