200 rowers prepare for SEA Games

200 rowers prepare for SEA Games

JAKARTA (JP): A total of 200 rowers are currently undergoing
intensive and rigorous training at the Jatiluhur dam in
preparation for the 19th SEA Games to be held here next October.

The rowers, all medal winners at the 14th National Games, are
from various provinces, including Southeast Sulawesi (23), West
Java (20) and Central Kalimantan (10).

"The training program began 10 days ago and will run until a
few weeks before the SEA Games," national trainer Yadi told
Antara in Jatiluhur, some 80 km south of here, Saturday.

He said at the conclusion of the training sessions and a
series of tryouts overseas, the Indonesian Rowing Association
would shortlist 93 oarsmen and women. "They will form the nucleus
of the Indonesian rowing squad for the biennial event."

During training, the athletes are under the tutelage of 16
national trainers and one Hungarian coach.

Yadi said after a few months at the centralized training camp,
some of the athletes, including canoeists, would go through a
series of workouts and tryouts overseas.

"We will also take part in traditional rowing events during
the world rowing, canoeing and kayaking championships in Hong
Kong next June," he said.

He expressed overwhelming optimism that Indonesia has what it
takes to once again rule the roost at the SEA Games.

"We finished at the top of the medals table in the last four
SEA Games. And we are out to reign supreme again next year," Yadi
said, adding that the Indonesian rowers have been asked to put
their shoulders to the wheel to sweep at least 25 of the 31 gold
medals at stake. (bas)