Palembang to host karate c'ships

PALEMBANG, South Sumatra (JP): The selection of the top karatekas in South Sumatra, the site of the 2004 National Games, to compete in the quadrennial event, will begin with the South Sumatra Police Chief Cup from May 17 to May 19.

The Indonesian Karate Federation (Forki) South Sumatra chapter secretary-general Karimbay Alwi, who is also the championships' organizing chairman, said the event was aimed at boosting the performance of local athletes for PON.

Alwi said the province had decided not to coach athletes.

"Therefore, we have to scout for talent and motivate our athletes to reach the target of finishing fifth in PON's overall standing. One of the sports the athletes can potentially win a medal in is karate."

The championships are scheduled to be completed by the chapter's branches in the province.

The event, to be staged at the Pakri Building, will feature eight weight classes for men and five divisions for women. (33)