Jakarta hosts figure skating

JAKARTA (JP): The capital will host the sixth 2001 Jakarta Open figure skating competition from Friday through Sunday at the Sky Rink in Taman Anggrek Mall, West Jakarta, which will also feature skaters from Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore.

"Most of the participants are from Sky Rink host team and Surabaya-based Dunia Es team. But there are also participants from neighboring countries," Sky Rink spokeswoman Agustina said over the phone.

Malaysia's Pyramid team is to send 15 skaters, with the Philippines' SM Megamal and Singapore's Fuji Ice Palace teams each sending two skaters.

Agustina admitted that the current political turmoil in Indonesia had prevented more participants from neighboring countries attending. She said that so far 169 have registered for the event.

The three-day event is arranged based on the participants' skill levels. Friday will feature children and beginners performing basic movements, Saturday intermediate level skaters and Sunday advanced level skaters. (nvn)