SINGAPORE: For most 16-year-olds, sitting for one of the biggest examinations of their lives would be stressful enough.

But Amanda Yap was juggling two life-defining moments at once: her O-Levels and the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, she found balance in the chaos itself.

"Having two things at once – my major exams and the competition – was quite beneficial because I didn't have to focus on one thing," she told CNA. "I wouldn't stress so much on one thing because I had other things to think about as well."

Her strategy worked. In Jakarta last month, Amanda made history as the first Singaporean gymnast to qualify for a world championships final, eventually placing sixth in the balance beam event.

A SISTER ACT

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