Births on February 16

Theresa Goh, Singaporean swimmer

Theresa Goh Rui Si: Singapore's Inspirational Paralympic Swimmer

Theresa Goh Rui Si (simplified Chinese: 吴蕊思; traditional Chinese: 吳蕊思; pinyin: Wú Ruǐ Sī), born on 16 February 1987, is an iconic Singaporean para-swimmer, celebrated for her remarkable achievements and unwavering spirit. A decorated Paralympic medalist, Goh etched her name in history by securing a bronze medal in the Women's SB4 100m breaststroke event at the highly anticipated 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro. Beyond her Paralympic podium finish, she also holds the prestigious world records for both the SB4 50 metres and 200 metres breaststroke events, showcasing her dominance in her chosen discipline.

Early Beginnings: Defying Limitations with Congenital Spina Bifida

Goh's extraordinary journey began with a significant challenge: she was born with congenital spina bifida, a birth defect where the spinal cord does not form properly. This condition, which typically affects the lower back, resulted in her not having the functional use of her legs. Despite this profound physical limitation, Goh's spirit remained unbroken. Demonstrating incredible resilience from a young age, she embraced swimming at the tender age of five. This early introduction to the water laid the foundation for her future success, and by the age of 12, she had already begun competing, quickly establishing herself as a formidable force in para-swimming.

A Trailblazer in Para-Sports: Early Medals and Global Recognition

Theresa Goh's talent and dedication quickly propelled her to the forefront of para-swimming. Her early career was marked by a consistent stream of medal-winning performances at prestigious regional and international events, signalling her arrival as a top-tier competitor. These early successes were crucial in building her profile and showcasing her potential on the world stage:

• ASEAN ParaGames (2001, 2003, 2005, 2008): A multi-sport event held after the Southeast Asian Games, specifically for athletes with physical disabilities. Goh consistently excelled, securing multiple medals across various editions, highlighting her regional dominance.
• Far East and South Pacific Games Federation for the Disabled (FESPIC) Games (2002): A significant regional competition for Asian and Pacific athletes with disabilities, which later evolved into the Asian Para Games. Her participation and medal wins here highlighted her prowess beyond Southeast Asia.
• International Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Sports Federation (ISMWSF) World Wheelchair Games (2003): An important international competition that brings together top wheelchair athletes from around the globe, providing a platform for elite-level competition.
• National Swimming Championships (2004): Demonstrating her dominance domestically, Goh continued to achieve success in Singapore's national events, often outperforming able-bodied competitors in certain categories.
• International Paralympic Committee (IPC) World Swimming Championships (2006): This highly competitive event, organised by the global governing body for para-sports, is a critical stepping stone for aspiring Paralympians, where Goh showcased her ability to compete among the world's best para-swimmers.

Setting New Benchmarks: World Records and Paralympic Debut

The years 2007 and 2008 marked a period of exceptional performance for Theresa Goh, solidifying her status as one of the world's elite para-swimmers. Her dedication and rigorous training culminated in breakthrough achievements:

• Danish Open (March 2007, Esbjerg, Denmark): Goh demonstrated her versatility by securing multiple top honours, including gold medals in the 100 metres breaststroke, 100 metres butterfly, 100 metres freestyle, and 200 metres individual medley. This impressive haul underscored her all-around aquatic capabilities and competitive edge.
• Record-Breaking Performance at ASEAN ParaGames (January 2008, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand): At the 4th ASEAN ParaGames, Goh delivered a truly historic performance. She shattered her own previous record, which she had set just months earlier at the German International Disability Swimming Championships in May 2007. Her time of 52.62 seconds in the 50 metres breaststroke not only earned her a gold medal but also established a new world record and FESPIC Games record. She further added to her medal tally with another gold in the 200 metres freestyle.
• Beijing 2008 Summer Paralympics: Building on her momentum, Goh proudly represented Singapore at the 2008 Summer Paralympics in Beijing, marking her debut on the grandest stage for para-athletes. She competed across several events, including the 50 metres, 100 metres, and 200 metres freestyle, as well as her signature event, the 100 metres breaststroke.

Understanding Paralympic Classifications and National Acclaim

Theresa Goh's illustrious career is also defined by her consistent performance within specific para-swimming classifications, which ensure fair and equitable competition among athletes with varying degrees of impairment. These classifications are crucial for maintaining the integrity of para-sports:

S5 Sport Class (Freestyle, Backstroke, Butterfly):

The 'S' category refers to physical impairment, with numbers from 1 (most severe) to 10 (least severe) indicating the level. An S5 classification means an athlete typically experiences significant impairment to their trunk and legs, while generally possessing good arm function, enabling them to propel themselves effectively in the water.

SB4 Sport Class (Breaststroke):

The 'SB' category is specifically designated for breaststroke events. Following a similar numbering system for impairment severity, the SB4 class signifies an athlete with comparable trunk and leg impairment to an S5 classification, optimised for the unique movements required in breaststroke.

SM5 Sport Class (Individual Medley):

The 'SM' category is for individual medley events, which combine different swimming strokes. The SM5 classification integrates aspects of both the S and SB categories, reflecting the athlete's overall functional ability across multiple strokes within the medley format.

By 22 August 2008, her exceptional talent was officially recognised with a world ranking of second for the 100 metres breaststroke and third for the 200 metres individual medley, solidifying her position among the global elite.

Beyond her competitive prowess, Goh has been widely celebrated for her contributions to sports in Singapore, receiving numerous national accolades:

• Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) Awards: As Singapore's primary organisation promoting sports for people with disabilities, the SDSC frequently honoured Goh:
  • 2001: Awarded the Sportsgirl Merit Award.
  • 2002 & 2003: Named Sportsgirl of the Year, recognising her outstanding achievements as a young athlete.
  • 2004-2006: Honoured as the SDSC's Sportswoman of the Year for three consecutive years, a testament to her sustained excellence and leadership in the sport.
  • 27 February 2008: Received a special award at the SDSC's Sports Superstar Awards 2007 for her exceptional accomplishments in swimming, highlighting her consistent high performance.
• National Day Awards: In August 2008, Goh was conferred the Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (PBM), or Public Service Medal. This prestigious national honour is awarded by the President of Singapore to individuals who have rendered commendable public service or have made significant contributions to the community and nation.

Rio Paralympic Glory and Enduring Legacy

Theresa Goh's career culminated in a magnificent achievement at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. There, she secured a hard-earned bronze medal in the Women's SB4 100 metres breaststroke event, a testament to her enduring skill and perseverance on the world's biggest stage. This medal was a crowning moment, adding a Paralympic podium finish to her impressive collection of world records and international golds.

In the same momentous year of 2016, her exceptional contributions and inspiring journey were further recognised with a higher national honour: she was presented the Bintang Bakti Masyarakat (BBM), or Public Service Star, in the prestigious National Day Awards. The BBM is a more senior award than the PBM (Public Service Medal) she received earlier, signifying an even greater level of outstanding public service or significant impact on the community.

After a remarkable and trailblazing career spanning decades, Theresa Goh announced her retirement from competitive sports in 2019. Her legacy as a pioneer in Singaporean para-sports, a multiple world record holder, and a Paralympic medalist continues to inspire aspiring athletes and champions the cause of inclusivity and resilience in Singapore and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theresa Goh

What is Theresa Goh's most significant Paralympic achievement?

Theresa Goh's most significant Paralympic achievement is winning a bronze medal in the Women's SB4 100m breaststroke event at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro.

What does the SB4 classification mean in para-swimming?

The SB4 classification is used for breaststroke events in para-swimming. The 'S' categories (including 'SB' for breaststroke and 'SM' for medley) range from 1 to 10, with lower numbers indicating a more severe physical impairment. An SB4 classification means an athlete has significant trunk and leg impairment, but still possesses functional arm strength suitable for competitive breaststroke swimming, requiring the use of upper body and limited trunk movement for propulsion.

What condition does Theresa Goh have?

Theresa Goh was born with congenital spina bifida, a birth defect where the spinal cord does not form properly. This condition primarily affects the lower back and resulted in her not having the functional use of her legs.

When did Theresa Goh retire from competitive swimming?

Theresa Goh announced her retirement from competitive sports in 2019, concluding a distinguished career as one of Singapore's most celebrated para-athletes.