Meitri quits SEA Games training

JAKARTA (JP): National swimmer Meitri Widya Pangestika,groomed for the Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, finally decided to quit the training center to pursue her studies in the United States.

"Meitri is focusing on completing her studies at the Salem International University and has hardly had any training sessions since December last year," Meitri's father Widjarnako was quoted as saying by Antara news agency from Purwokerto, Central Java.

"We cannot rely only on swimming skills and technique to compete in a multisports event such as SEA Games but continuous training is also needed. Meitri has not had any training sessions for about four months."

Widjanarko, who is also chairman of Purwokerto-based Bina Taruna swimming Club, said her resignation also enabled younger swimmers to compete in national events.

"Meitri has submitted her resignation letter to the Indonesian Swimming Federation (PRSI) in response to the organization's letter questioning her status in the training center," he said.

"She would also resign from the National Games (PON) but she would still defend Banyumas regency in the Central Java Games."

Secretary of PRSI's Central Java chapter, FD Hartadi Nurjojo, said the resignation would hamper Indonesia's hopes of achieving more medals from swimming.

"Meitri had quite a chance in her specialization, 50-meter and 400-meter freestyle events. The resignation means our women's swimmers would have to work hard to contribute any medals."

PRSI aims to take home six of the 32 golds at stake from swimming. Aquatic sports alone offer 43 golds. (nvn)