"Thank God, I was able to help the team win a silver medal. This is my first medal at the APG Games, and I still need more experience in the future," Ikhsan told ANTARA after his team lost 5-15 to Thailand in the final at the Indoor Stadium, Vongchavalitkul University, Nakhon Ratchasima, Sunday afternoon.
Nur Ikhsan's journey to the APG 2025 podium wasn't always smooth. The 24-year-old works as a massage therapist in his hometown of Temanggung, Central Java.
Despite having to earn a living despite economic limitations, this did not discourage him from achieving proud achievements.
"Previously, when I was at the regional training center (pelatda), I trained on Sundays, while the other days were used to meet my daily needs," he said.
The effort paid off. The silver medal was the first international medal of her career, and proof that hard work and consistency lead to success.
Before entering goalball, Ikhsan studied para-athletics, but due to various reasons that felt unsuitable, he decided to switch to goalball in 2023.
