PETALING JAYA: Inspired by powerlifter Bonnie Bunyau Gustin’s historic win at the Tokyo Paralympics, shuttler Cheah Liek Hou has vowed to replicate the feat.

The 33-year-old had a close view and held the gold medal when he paid Bonnie a visit at the Games Village to congratulate him.

“Bonnie is staying in the unit just next to mine, so the moment he got back I went over to congratulate him,” said Liek Hou.

“How I wish that I could be there to cheer for him at the venue, but we’re not allowed to do that.

“But I did catch him in action through the live telecast.

“He’s a good friend, I was so happy to see him win. My relationship with the rest of the contingent members has been quite close after I joined them for the quarantine-based training camp at Kampung Pandan. Previously we only met when we went to the Games.

“So we’re trying to encourage each other. Bonnie’s victory will fire up everyone to continue with the good start he has given us.

“As for myself, I intend to do what he has done in powerlifting, to win gold.

“He let me hold the gold medal and said may luck from his medal be passed on to me. He also said it’s my turn to shine.”

Liek Hou’s men’s singles SU5 event will start on Wednesday.

He has been handed a favourable draw in the group stage and should face little trouble reaching the medal playoff on Sunday.

Besides stiff competition from Indonesian arch-rivals Dheva Anrimusthi and Suryo Nugroho, Liek Hou will have to ready himself for an energy-sapping finale where the semis and final will be held on the same day.