East Java archers opt for training in Surabaya

JAKARTA (JP): Three national archers from East Java have opted to take part in the 19th SEA Games decentralized training program in Surabaya next month.

Hendra Setiawan, Dwi Purwanti and Foury Akadiani are to join the program, approved by the Indonesian Archery Association, because they believe it will be more effective and efficient.

"The association has agreed that we conduct a decentralized program in Surabaya because the three athletes come from East Java. But we do not yet have any idea if the program will continue until the biennial event or not. We're still waiting for information from the association," said Denny Trisyanto, the secretary-general of the association's Surabaya branch. Jakarta will host the region's biggest sports extravaganza from Oct. 11 to Oct. 19.

Denny said that, by joining the decentralized program, athletes could concentrate on their training without interrupting their studies or work.

"East Java has many archers that can be used as sparring partners for our athletes," he said.

Foury Akadiani said she was delighted with the decision because the program would not interrupt her work at a private bank.

"If the program was being conducted in Jakarta, I would have had problems managing my schedule," she said.

Antara reported that Foury promised to participate in the program to the best of her ability, and that she expected to win gold, as targeted by the association and the National Sports Council. (yan)