About Us
Singapore Armwrestling, better known as SGAW, is the national body that develops, governs and promotes armwrestling in the Lion City.
What started in 2011 as a handful of enthusiasts training under a void deck has grown into an island‑wide network of clubs, certified referees and medal‑winning athletes who fly the flag on the Asian and world stage.
Our Story
Notable Achievements & Trends
Rise of the Sport (2009–2013): Singapore’s armwrestling scene began with local contests like the Shin Min Challenge (2009 onward), which helped form the core community. Early on, a handful of pioneers (led by Valen Low) competed in numerous Malaysian tournaments, rapidly clinching junior titles and regional medals. This laid the groundwork for Singapore Armwrestling (SGAW) as an official body.
First International Titles: 2014 was a breakthrough year – Valen Low became the first Singaporean to win an international championship (the FitX Cup in Australia) and an Asian Championship title. That same year saw Singapore’s first podium finish at a major open tournament (Pattaya, 3rd place), signaling Singapore’s ability to compete on the world stage despite a small team.
World Championship Debut: Team Singapore made its inaugural appearance at the World Armwrestling Championships in 2015 (Kuala Lumpur). Although no medals were won, it was a historic first step at the world level. Notably, by 2023 the Singapore contingent – now including youth and senior pullers – achieved an impressive 3 gold, 4 silver, 3 bronze medals at the IFA World Championships, marking Singapore’s best world result to date and demonstrating the depth they’ve developed.
Growth of Domestic Scene: After a decade of groundwork, SGAW organized the first National Championships in 2021, crowning Singapore’s own champions. Each year since, the Nationals have grown in size and divisions – including women’s (though initially no female entries in 2021) and masters/juniors by 2023 – with around 50 participants and 20+ titles in 2023. All national medals are, of course, won by Singaporeans, but these events have been crucial in unearthing new talent and expanding the competitive pool.
Youth and Outreach: 2024 saw the launch of a dedicated Junior Armwrestling Championship – the first in Singapore – reflecting the sport’s increasing popularity among youth. Community-oriented meets (e.g. charity “food drive” tournaments and open brawls) have also been held to raise awareness and recruit newcomers. These efforts have led to the largest-ever Singapore teams in international events by 2024, including a new generation of pullers earning medals in regional competitions (e.g. Asian Cup 2024, Malaysian invitational meets).
International Affiliation: In late 2024, SGAW transitioned to join the World Armwrestling Federation (WAF) family, aligning with the Asian Armwrestling Federation (AAF). This paved the way for official Singapore representation at WAF-sanctioned Asian Cups and future World Championships. The immediate impact was evident at the 2024 Asian Cup in Mumbai – Singapore’s two-man squad brought home five medals, a strong start under the WAF banner. With growing experience, a broader base of athletes, and formal federation support, Team Singapore continues to hit new milestones each year.
What We Stand For
Mission
To cultivate a safe, inclusive and competitive armwrestling scene that empowers Singaporeans of all ages to test their strength, build character and represent the nation with pride.
Vision
Armwrestling recognised as a mainstream combat sport in Singapore, supported by world‑class coaching, officiating and athlete pathways from grassroots to the global podium.
Meet the Executive Committee Behind Singapore Armwrestling (2025-2027)
Leonard Yip
President
A multi-award-winning filmmaker and seasoned educator, Leonard brings over 20 years of academic leadership to his role as Senior Lecturer and Course Chair at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Outside the classroom, Leonard is a proud husband and father of two—and a Masters-class podium finisher in Singapore’s growing armwrestling scene, where he exemplifies the powerful synergy of intellect, discipline, and strength.
Jasper Chan
Head of Operations /
General Secretary
Jasper Chan is a former dragon‑boater turned armwrestler who first stepped to the table in 2019 and now leads Singapore’s fastest‑growing combat‑strength sport.
Elected President of Singapore Armwrestling (SGAW) in 2023, he juggled three roles—athlete, official and organiser—while steering the federation’s push for national‑sport recognition and wider media coverage
Raj Kumar
Vice-President
Raj Kumar associated with the handle @iamtherajman is a seasoned sports broadcaster and media professional based in Singapore. With a career spanning over 25 years, he has held various roles, including sports producer-presenter, radio sportscaster, reporter, editor, broadcast journalist, content manager, and event host/emcee.
Derrick Zhang
Head of Youth Development
Derrick Zhang is one of Singapore’s brightest young armwrestling prospects, balancing the dual identities of rising athlete and community builder. Still in his teens, he already boasts medals at the national level, including a gold medal at the Singapore Nationals 2024 Junior & Senior 75 kg class, and he has since broken into the country’s top junior athlete at around 75 kg.