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)