After disappointment in the 100m and 200m events, James Ang took silver in the men's 400m T12 event, setting two national records on the way. Photo: SportSG/Dejbordin Limsupanark
As a runner, James Ang is well-acquainted with the idea of putting one foot in front of the other.
That is what he did through the 13th ASEAN Para Games, despite curveballs in the lead-up to, and during the event.
The 24-year-old’s reward for staying the course was a silver medal in the men’s 400m T12 on January 24, when he clocked 52.96 seconds to claim second place.
It was also his second national record of the day, following a 54.278 sec effort in the heats.
The medal, his sole one after missing out in the 100m and 200m sprints, was consolation for navigating a trickier Games than usual. There was an injury to deal with in the lead-up, and Ang was also competing a class down, from T13 to T12, after his vision deteriorated.
“Coming into the T12 category, I had to manage more rounds, and I think that’s something we will be working on after this competition,” he said.
“I had a left knee injury that disrupted my training for about a month, which was annoying, but we worked through it and still had a decent build-up. Injuries are part and parcel of the sprinter journey, and we just have to work through it.”
There was also the unusual situation of running a one-man final in the 100m, after the final had taken place the night before, due to organisational issues. With no competitors alongside him, he could only race against time, and eventually finished fourth based on his time of 11.99 sec.
He said: “The solo run was rather odd, but I’m glad to have that experience under my belt. Overall, it’s been a good Games, with aspects to reflect on for sure, but I’ll enjoy the moment for now.”
While Ang admits he would have preferred to go away with more silverware, he also knows athletes are rarely – if ever – content. There is always something to improve on and more records to chase.
“I was disappointed for sure,” he said about missing out on the podium in the 100m and 200m events. “But I have realised over the years that there is really no time to think of what could have been. Hence, I just went into each race with a fresh mind, making sure I execute my race plan properly.
“It’s been a time of adjusting and figuring out what works for me. I’m learning as I go, but I think we have a pretty solid system in place for now. Considering the circumstances, I’m proud of the result here and will continue to perfect my game moving forward.”
With law school now in his rear view mirror, Ang is clear about what lies on his season and path ahead – although he is keeping some cards close to his chest.
He said: ‘I have some plans in the works, but I guess you’ll have to stay tuned to find out exactly what I’ll be up to this year. But yes, I will be at the Asian Para Games.”
The 13th ASEAN Para Games are held in Thailand from 20 to 26 January 2026. For the latest Team Singapore coverage and news, follow Team Singapore on their social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) or visit the official Team Singapore website.