C. Java athletes lack of budget

SEMARANG (JP): The Central Java National Games (PON) contingent still suffers a Rp 550 million (US$65,050) deficit although it has received funds from the Provincial Budget of Rp 13.5 billion and from the Central Java Sports Fund Foundation (Yadora) of Rp 1.2 billion.

The contingent treasurer Qoriyah said Saturday that the deficit was caused by unexpected medical expenses for some athletes who had to be hospitalized after suffering illness during training.

Athletes are insured for accidents occurring during training but not illness.

"Some athletes, who suffered typhoid and dengue fever, did not get health insurance and we must use our budget to pay the bills," she said.

The National Sports Council (KONI) Central Java chapter chairman Hendrawan hopes businesspeople in the province will help provide funds to the contingent's transportation to Surabaya, where the 15th PON will take place from June 19 to June 30.

"I'm optimistic that there will be about 100 business people in Central Java who will help at least Rp 10 million each. We will gather enough money for our needs," he said.

Speaking about the PON flame, which will be taken from the eternal source in Grobogan on June 13, Hendrawan said the flame would be brought to Surabaya for the opening ceremony conducted by vice president Megawati Soekarnoputri. (har)