Surprise silver, now for gold

By Sim Chi Yin

Beijing - One could say Yip Pin Xiu was at a disadvantage from the start in yesterday's race for the 50 metres freestyle (S3 category) crown.

Unlike favourite and previous world record-holder Patricia Valle of Mexico, swimming the distance in the usually quicker front crawl (freestyle) would have been out of the question.

Born with muscular dystrophy, which does not allow her to straighten her fingers, the 16-year-old Singaporean's most efficient stroke is the backstroke.

More aid on the cards for disabled

By Leonard Lim

Beijing - They equalled the feat of their able-bodied counterparts with a silver yesterday - and may even go on to win a gold tomorrow.

Yet, 20 years since Singapore made its Paralympics debut, its disabled athletes are still struggling for parity.

That may change by the time the 2012 Games come around.

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