Games raise drama, emotion

This year's 23rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games opened in Manila, the Philippines, under the theme of unity, although the reality has been very different. An ugly spat broke out between the hosts and several other countries in the 11-nation Games amid accusations of match-fixing and unfair judging.

Away from all the behind-the-scenes politics, however, the participating athletes got down to the business of competing.

For the lucky few, like perennial champion swimmer Richard Sambera who competed in his first Games 16 years ago, the past few days have brought victory and triumph. While most of the other competitors were left with disappointment and dashed hopes, they will still have the honor of representing their countries in the closing ceremony on Monday, when the Games conclude.

-- The Jakarta Post