Weightlifter Scott raises the bar at graduation

18 Jul 2016

A record-breaking weightlifter will also be carrying the expectations of his patients now that he’s graduated from the University with a medical degree

Scott Wong from Singapore graduated last week to add another honour to a list that includes representing his country at the Commonwealth Games.

As well as representing Singapore, he has also represented the University with distinction by winning the British Student Championships in 2014 and 2016 and the English Northern championships in 2013, 2015 and 2016.

That’s all despite the fact that he only turned to the sport when he couldn’t afford the airfare to attend the South East Asian Games in his original sport of track and field.

Scott said: “I was originally a track and field athlete, and I competed for my country from 2003-2013 as a shot putter and discus thrower. In 2013, I could not obtain funding for my air ticket to compete in the South East Asian games, so I decided to pick up weightlifting and try to qualify for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, which was just a train ticket away.”

Scott originally came to Manchester because of the quality of the medical course and the sporting facilities. It’s a decision that has paid off as by combining his training with his studies he’s become the Singaporean national record holder in three categories of the sport.

“My training and study times would complement each other,” said Scott of his time at university. “I would train when my mind was too tired or stressed, and my fitness level would give me the physical and mental fortitude to study smart and study hard.

“Also I had many supportive staff from the University of Manchester, including dedicated physios, administrators and lecturers, which gave me a solid foundation to work from. Friends and family are also a solid pillar and words cannot describe the help they have given me when the going gets tough.”

Imogen Greatbatch, the University’s Performance Sport and Business Development Manager, added: “Scott has been an outstanding student; everything he does is completed to the highest standard. Dual career athletes have to balance a lot, to be graduating from a degree like medicine is testament to Scott’s organisation and commitment to both his university and sport.”

As for Scott, he’ll be returning to Singapore as a houseman and his preparations for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. He said: “The trick will be to balance up training and full-time work and to ensure that my patients receive the best care from me.

“I am looking to take some time off to train in Melbourne before the Commonwealth Games, and I will do it for the people supporting me. With precision, panache, and perseverance I believe I can balance both medicine and sports at a high level.”