Danniel Iskandar, Esmelda Arecia rule 2013 SUKMA

Artistic gymnastics athletes have been chosen as the sportsman and sportswoman of the 16th Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Bukit Jalil, here today.

Danniel Iskandar Richard,19, of Selangor was named the sportsman while Esmelda Arecia Menti Alfred Geling of Sarawak was named the sportswoman.

He won three gold medals via the men individual event, team and pommel horse and two silver medals in tumbling and single crossbar.

The elite athlete from the national gymnastics squad said the honours did not cross his thoughts as he was in the company of many great athletes.

"I am also proud to help Selangor become overall champion this year. I had to work hard to win the three gold and two silver medals," he told reporters here today.

The athlete from Shah Alam said the triumph was meaningful for him becuase it was his last appearance in Sukma.

Danniel Iskandar said that he woud keep practising vigorously in preparation for the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore.

Prior to this, his best achievement was winning two gold, one silver and two bronze medals at the 2012 Pahang Sukma.

Meanwhile, Esmelda Arecia, 13, said she was happy with the win and hopes to continue winning at the next Sukma.

The Iban athlete from Kuching who won two gold, two silver and one bronze medal said: "I continue to train diligently."