Maximilian Maeder, the inaugural Singaporean male Young World Sailor of the Year, honored his commitment by serving curry puffs to his supporters at Soon Soon Huat Curry Puff on East Coast Road after his recent victory. The Olympic medallist assumed the position behind the counter on Thursday (Nov 7) and engaged with enthusiastic customers who arrived to back him.
Maeder, 18 years old, had promised to spend a day selling curry puffs if he won the award, which was decided by a mix of public votes and evaluations from World Sailing’s expert panel. His success followed shortly after securing an Olympic bronze medal at Paris 2024 and capturing nine additional titles, such as world, European, and Asian championships.
Wearing a Soon Soon Huat T-shirt, Maeder got to the shop early, prior to its opening time. According to CNA, he conducted a staff meeting before permitting the first customers entry at 7:30 am. A lot of enthusiastic fans queued to meet him, with some even bringing items for him to autograph. Maeder has expressed his love for curry puffs, and the shop owner allows him to work there.
A customer, Foo Zee Zou, 15, shared her admiration for Maeder, saying that seeing an Olympic medallist do these kind of daily tasks was very motivating. A different customer also says that the importance of Maeder’s engagement with the local culture, highlighting the beneficial effect he has had on other athletes striving for excellence.
Maeder describes this opportunity at the shop as “extremely vibrant” and “full of enjoyment.” Although it was only his first day, he wished he had been more beneficial than a burden to the staff and customers. When queried about the differing challenges between competitive sailing and selling curry puffs, Maeder jokingly remarked that making such a comparison was hasty considering his minimal experience.
During the day, a lot of customers lined up for snacks, with Maeder estimating he had served about 150-200 customers since starting his work. The shop owner, Tay Mui Lan, praised Maeder’s work, noting he processed orders correctly and attracted considerable interest to the store. He was even taken aback by a unique curry puff featuring his name from the Katong shop.
Maeder’s mother, Hwee Keng, talked about their deep relationship with Soon Soon Huat and how Maeder’s initial plan to prepare the curry puffs himself changed to offering them because of time limitations. After his time at the shop, Maeder will continue training, with plans for a camp in Perth set for mid-November as he advances in his sailing journey.


