The two-time Olympic swimmer continues his advocacy for sports despite being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia in March.
SINGAPORE: When Mark Chay made his Olympic debut at the 2000 Sydney Games, he left a mark as an 18-year-old by clocking Asia’s fastest time in the 200m freestyle. Yet, for Chay, the Games were more than just a competition; they ignited a larger mission.
“That was when I shifted from swimming for myself to seeing sports as a mission,” Chay reflected. “It’s about creating opportunities for others, not just personal achievements.”
This commitment has carried Chay through decades of contribution to sports as a coach, administrator, and advocate. Now 42, Chay is applying the same determination as he battles chronic myeloid leukemia, a diagnosis he received in March.
Stepping Back with Purpose
Chay recently announced that he would not seek reelection as president of Singapore Aquatics (SAQ) when his term ends in August. Despite his diagnosis, he chose to see through his responsibilities, including overseeing preparations for the World Aquatics Championships, which Singapore will host next year.
“This event is critical not just for Singapore but for the global aquatics community,” said Chay. “It’s my duty to ensure this transition is smooth.”
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
Chay first noticed symptoms like fatigue and persistent coughing in February. A routine checkup in March confirmed the worst: chronic myeloid leukemia.
His wife, Joanna Seetoh, who accompanied him to the doctor, described the initial shock. “It felt like the ground disappeared beneath me,” said Seetoh, a lawyer. However, she maintained her composure to support her husband.
Chay credits his wife’s calm demeanor for helping him navigate the early days of uncertainty. “If she had panicked, I would have spiraled,” he shared.
Doctors informed Chay that his condition requires long-term treatment, with significant progress expected over the next two years.
“I focus on taking it one day at a time and trust my doctors. My priority now is recovery and spending quality time with my family,” he said.
Balancing Passion and Family
Beyond SAQ, Chay wears many hats, including roles at the Global Esports Federation and the International Sports Academy. He was also a Nominated Member of Parliament from 2021 to 2023.
While some questioned whether Chay had overcommitted himself, his wife offered a nuanced perspective. “Initially, I wondered why he was juggling so much, but I’ve come to see it as his passion to serve the community,” said Seetoh.
Chay emphasized that stepping back from SAQ will allow him to focus fully on his family. “I want to be there 100% for them,” he said.
Leaving a Legacy
Chay’s tenure as SAQ president has been eventful, marked by challenges like the 2022 cannabis use case among national swimmers and the recent Olympics selection controversy. Despite these, Chay said he has no regrets.
“Unpopular decisions had to be made for the good of the organization’s future,” he noted.
Under his leadership, SAQ launched initiatives like the Empowering Lives Through Aquatics program, which teaches vulnerable youths essential water survival skills. The number of affiliated schools, swim academies, and clubs also grew by 20% during his term.
“Every single day I served, I gave it my all. I leave with no regrets,” Chay said.
Looking Ahead
As he steps away from the spotlight, Chay remains committed to his broader mission of uplifting sports in Singapore. “This isn’t the end for me,” he said. “It’s just a different chapter in how I can contribute.”
