Sarawak Olympus Open 2024 a thrilling showcase of dodgeball talent and community spirit

Miri, Sarawak – 19 November 2024 The Sarawak Olympus Open 2024, held on 16 and 17 November 2024, delivered an unforgettable weekend of fast-paced action and fierce competition, as dodgeball enthusiasts from across Southeast Asia gathered in Miri for an event to remember.

The tournament, organised by the Olympus Dodgeball Club Miri of Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) and co-hosted by the Phoenix Dodgeball Club of Selangor, was supported by Phoenix Dodgeball Enterprise and took place at the Champion Futsal Court in Riam here. With 13 teams from Brunei, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Penang, and Miri competing, the event celebrated the rising popularity of dodgeball in East Malaysia.

The tournament was honoured by the presence of Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts I (Tourism), who served as the event’s Guest of Honour. Support from key sponsors, including Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, and Mayor of Miri and Pujut Assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang, played an instrumental role in ensuring the event’s success.

Melissa Eva Tay Anak Kunjin, advisor to the Olympus Dodgeball Club Miri, emphasised the broader significance of the Sarawak Olympus Open 2024, which went beyond competition.

“This event not only provided an exciting platform for teams to showcase their skills but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and community among participants. It is clear that dodgeball is growing in popularity across East Malaysia, and this tournament was a testament to the commitment and passion of everyone involved,” Melissa said. “We are excited to see what the future holds and are already looking forward to even bigger events.”

Melissa also extended her gratitude to the Malaysian Association of Dodgeball, Curtin Malaysia, and the Curtin Malaysia Student Council for their ongoing support and official sanctioning of the Olympus Dodgeball Club Miri.

The excitement peaked when Team Skatepark from Kuala Lumpur claimed the coveted first-place title, dominating the tournament with remarkable skill and strategy. Hot on their heels, Team Kokodile 2 Skul, also from Kuala Lumpur, secured second place, while the spirited Team Moonwalkers, a team representing both Penang and Miri, took home third place.

The weekend was more than just about winning – it was about celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship, community, and the growing dodgeball movement in Malaysia. The event will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all who participated and attended.

Datuk Sebastian Ting (centre) with the event organising committee, celebrating the tournament’s success

Team Maestro from Brunei pose for group photo before their match

Team Watashi Moo Deng from Kuching displaying their team spirit

Team Chilli Pan Mee from Miri, collaborating on their game plan before hitting the court