Indonesia sails to a clean sweep in canoeing, kayaking

By Dwiatmanta

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia confirmed predictions by raking in the remaining golds in canoeing and kayaking yesterday, setting the stage for another gold rush in traditional boat races and rowing.

Anisi in the 500-meter kayak led the haul of golds at the Jatiluhur reservoir to complete a perfect 12 out of 12 of wins for the host squad. They garnered the first half dozen during the opening day of competition on Sunday.

Anisi dominated his race to win in 1:49.56, finishing two seconds ahead of main rival Khin Maung Myint of Myanmar. Malaysian Mohamad Zaenal Abidin was adrift in third (1:57.92).

In the men's 500-meter canoeing, Asnawir paddled his way to victory in 2:10.53, fending off another Myanmarese challenge from Thein Tun.

Women's kayaker Hatimin joined the golden gala by taking the 500 meters in 2:03.33. Thailand's Phawronsri Phuangphet was two seconds behind for the silver, ahead of Myanmar's Khin Mar Oo in 2:15.10.

The pairing of Monim and Lampada won the men's kayak 500 meters.

Overjoyed national coach Setiawan said the success would bolster Indonesia's bid to win eight golds in the traditional boat races today.

"Myanmar is the only team which could deny us a clean sweep, thanks to its strong women's team in the 500 meters race," Setiawan said.

The Indonesian women's team of 22 narrowly beat their Myanmarese rivals in the previous Games in Chiang Mai two years ago.

Rowing will offer 11 golds, with Indonesian coach Safril Nurdin predicting a tough challenge from Singapore in the women's double sculls.