Sailing started off as an excuse for Jovin Tan, a wheelchair-user, to get out of his house. Now, he’s working to qualify for his fourth Paralympics to represent Singapore.
Managing a demanding training schedule
“It’s all about time management,” he says. Despite, his busy schedule, he maintains a day job from 9am to 5pm, he trains after work once a week, and his weekends are dedicated to sailing. “I’m quite happy that my girlfriend do understands the commitment that I have,” he explains. “Usually we spend more time having a dinner out after sailing during the weekends or out for a movie.” His rigorous schedule keeps him focused. “It’s all about discipline. You just got to plan things ahead,” he shares. “If you want to go out late at night, you got to make sure you wake early the next day for training.”
Jovin has worked extremely hard to get to where he is today, never compromising his training or slacking. He has completed in many competitions over the years, racking up a notable achievements he is proud of, including winning a gold medal for Singapore in the Korean Para Games. “I was the only one that won the gold medal for the whole Singapore contingent,” he shares with pride. “Nothing comes easy in life, you just got to work harder, extra harder than people.” And work hard he does.
Overcoming fears to reach new potential
Interestingly enough however, although he’s a top sailor, he can’t swim. His inability to swim made him a bit fearful at first. “I didn’t have any partner during the new class …I was scared to be alone on the boat,” he admits. “I was quite worried and scared until I almost cried because I can’t swim. Until today I’m still not able to swim.” When his body touches cold water, he deals with spasms that create unique challenges for him. “I have to overcome that phobia because when I get to race, I just have no time to think about what happens when I fall overboard,” he explains. “I just got to make sure I catch the guy in front and that I’m leading and make sure no one overtakes me.”
Sailing has also helped him establish more independence. “It’s because of sailing… I’m able to at least push my wheelchair right now, not fast but from point A to point B…so sailing has really changed me a lot,” says Jovin. “Sailing makes me become stronger, not just physically but mentally as well…it’s a sport that teaches a lot of meaningful life lessons.”
Sailing is more than just a sport for Jovin, it’s a lifestyle.
“Nothing beats sailing,” he says. He plans to keep sailing in his life no matter what. “Hopefully to be a coach when I retire…To share my knowledge of sailing to the next generation,” he says.
Know someone interested in trying sailing? Share this post to show what’s possible.