PABBSI gets Rp 124m from state firms

PABBSI gets Rp 124m from state firms

JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Weightlifting, Powerlifting and
Bodybuilding Association (PABBSI) secretary-general, Djoko
Pramono, announced on Wednesday that a surprise transfer into the
organization's bank account of Rp 124 million (US$18,370) would
enable its athletes to compete in the 2000 Olympics qualifying
round.

"I was really surprised. After I checked with other officials
and the bank, (I found out that) the fund came from the state
enterprises on Oct. 29," Djoko told Antara.

PABBSI sent a letter to the National Sports Council (KONI)
requesting financial help to send its lifters -- Minarni, Sri
Indriyani, Supeni and Lisa Rumbewas in the women's side and Erwin
Abdullah in the men's side -- to the World Championships in
Athens on Nov. 20 and Nov. 21.

"We are yet to receive an answer from KONI. PABBSI has
provided Rp 100 million of Rp 224 million to send the five
athletes, a coach and a manager," Djoko said.

"I am sure Indonesian lifters will be able to reach their best
achievements specially in the women's side. Hopefully three of
them can qualify for the Olympic Games in Sydney next year," he
said, adding that the championships also served as a qualifying
round for the Olympics. (yan)