SINGAPORE, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- "Well done Joseph, well done Singapore!" audiences from Singapore Swimming Association (SSA) shouted in jubilation during the live telecast screening of the Rio Olympics men's 100m butterfly finals at Singapore's OCBC Aquatic Center on Saturday.
Joseph Schooling, a 21-year-old swimmer for Team Singapore, touched the wall in 50.39 seconds, beating 22 Olympic gold medals winner, America's Michael Phelps, as well as South Africa's Chad le Clos and Hungarian Laszlo Cseh.
August 13, 2016 is a historical date for Singapore, as Schooling won the first Olympic gold medal for the city state. Singaporeans burst into cheers after the amazing race.
"We are so proud of him, we never have a gold medal like that. I'm lost for words, we are so happy and so proud of him," said Joscelin Yeo, former national swimmer who is also the vice-president of SSA.
Oon Jin Teik, Secretary-General of Singapore Swimming Association who was also at the OCBC Aquatic Center, echoed with Joscelin, saying no words can describe his feeling completely.
"The result here, frankly, is unexpected," said Oon, adding that this is an "emotional win" for Singapore.
"The result is not only an inspiration, but a historical moment for Singapore. It's the best birthday gift for Singapore, for the next 50 years' development."
The Secretary-General of SSA also stressed the importance of Schooling's wonderful performance for the younger generation.
"It tells the younger generation that life is about believing, life is about working for something you believe, life is about pursuing your goals, and the outcome will come, and then we can celebrate as a nation," said Oon.
Baey Yam Keng, Parliamentary Secretary for Culture, Community and Youth, witnessed the historic moment with the country's sporting community, saying the audiences were all ecstatic.
"What he has achieved -- an Olympic record, what more can we ask for? It's really a great motivation and encouragement, and a great gift for Singapore's birthday."
Baey told the media that he had seen some young swimmers here, who came in and watched the live, and he thought they were inspired by Joseph.
"I am sure they will do their best, and they will do Singapore proud one day. It's something we can strive towards...work hard for it...you know, nothing is impossible," said Baey.
Gary Tan, Assistant National Coach of Singapore, spoke highly of Schooling after watching the live, describing this final race as one of Schooling's most perfect ones.
"For Joseph, I think it's the start of his journey, I think there is more to come in Tokyo 2020. It's something he can look forward to. Build on the momentum, it can be even bigger. Hopefully, more guys will be inspired to get medals," added Tan, a two-time Olympian who retired in 2006 and took up coaching in 2008.
Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, as well as many Singaporean leaders conveyed their congratulations to Schooling on Saturday. Some of the leaders also joined the public to celebrate the historic moment for the country.
