After coming out of retirement, rhythmic gymnast Enid Sung made an enormous comeback by winning the bronze at this year’s Commonwealth Games. I spoke with her after the games to discuss her love of the sport, how she decided to come out of retirement, and what she sees for her future.
How long have you been doing gymnastics?
I started Gymnastics the year I was turning 12, back in 2005.
What made you start the sport?
I started the sport because my best friend was doing it at the time and I wanted an excuse to spend more time with her after school!
Besides the Commonwealth Games, what has your biggest gymnastics accomplishment been?
My biggest Gymnastics accomplishment was probably winning the all around bronze medal at the Youth Olympics Festival in 2009, and being named the top Junior International gymnast that year. I’ve also been named to 3 consecutive Commonwealth Games teams (only partook in the latter due to injury) and 3 World Universiades.
How long were you in retirement?
I retired for a few months back in 2012 due to a lower back stress fracture but my most substantial break was in January 2014 where I dislocated my shoulder at training. I returned back to training in November 2016!
Who has been your biggest inspiration during your time as a gymnast?
My biggest inspiration to return to the sport was actually my support network; friends, family, and my coach in particular. It’s inspiring to have people believe in you so that you in turn can begin to understand it yourself.
How did it feel to compete and medal at the Commonwealth Games?
I was again affected by an injury and was unable to train as much as I would have liked during the last 6 months, so just to be named on the squad in February was pretty incredible. It’s such a privilege to represent your country, and to have the time of your life whilst doing it! It will be an unforgettable experience. There is nothing like a home crowd, their support was electric. It was nothing short of breathtaking.
The medal was just the icing on top of the cake. I don’t think it could have been any more special to receive one in front of a home crowd, and to finally have it signify my gratitude to everyone who had supported me throughout my journey, and for the crowd for being there and present.
What is your favorite aspect of your sport?
I think my favourite aspect of the sport is that we have creative reign and it can be an artistic expression as much as it is a sport of athleticism. It makes it a sport anyone can enjoy to spectate.
What do you see for your future gymnastics career?
I can look forward to my new position as a talent identification coach in the NSW High Performance Program where I’ll be able to hopefully assist younger generation in honing their talent and growing their passions.
When you attended Uni, how did you balance school and sport?
I’ve always balanced study and training since year 5, so it wasn’t anything too different. University however, did require specific adjustments. Being part of the EAP at uni was super helpful in allowing me to give my attention to both aspects of my life. To be part of likeminded individuals who aspire to do the best in their sporting and academic fields was such a privilege.
Have you done anything based around your degree since you’ve graduated?
I was offered a full time job at Marie Claire where I interned in my last semester, but had to unfortunately turn down due to training commitments. At the moment, I’m a junior marketing officer working in internal communications at Gymnastics NSW, my state organizing body!
