Monday, January 28, 2013

Badminton Legend Eddy Choong Dies

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 28 (Bernama) -- National badminton legend Datuk Eddy Choong, who was four-time All-England champion, died of stomach haemorrhage, here, Monday.

Choong, 83, who left behind wife Datin Maggie Choong, four sons and five grandchildren, died at the Loh Guan Lye specialist centre here at 2.30pm after he was admitted two days ago.

His eldest son, Finn Choong, 53, said his father was admitted to the hospital after he vomited.

"The doctor had allowed him to be discharged Monday. However, he experienced complications and stopped breathing. The doctor found his stomach bleeding," he said when met by reporters at his house in Jalan Bell, here.

He said his father who dearly loved badminton, was due to attend the All-England competition in Birmingham in March to support the national team.

Meanwhile, Maggie, 79, expressed her gladness at the coming of the media to cover her husband's death.

"I am very happy to see all of you still remember him. For many many years he always loved all the reporters. He was very proud of you all. I think he will be very happy now if he can see you," she said.

Other than becoming a four-time All-England champion in 1953, 1954, 1956 and 1957, Eddy was also a member of the winning Malaya Thomas Cup team in 1955.

His remains will be cremated at the Batu Gantung Crematorium here at 2pm on Friday.

In KUALA LUMPUR, Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) general manager Kenny Goh said he was informed of Choong's death by the latter's family members.

"It is saddening news and a big loss for the badminton fraternity. BAM and I extend our condolences to his family," he said when contacted by Bernama.

-- BERNAMA

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