Problems mounting ahead of SEA Games

Problems mounting ahead of SEA Games

JAKARTA (JP): With only about a month left before the
commencement of the Kuala Lumpur 2001 Southeast Asian (SEA)
Games, several sports organizations here are busy seeking an end
to the internal and external problems plaguing their final
preparations.

The Indonesian Karate Federation (Forki) has given two of its
fighters, Isfan Rahfisal Tanjung and Christine Dewi Gani, a
Monday deadline to reduce their weight or else they lose their
places on the 19-strong national karate team.

"We discovered the overweight problems during our training
session in Japan last month. They must lose weight by Monday or
face the consequences," the Forki official responsible for
athlete development, Ahmad Budu, said on Thursday.

"They will have to resign from the national team or be
expelled by the federation if they cannot meet the weight
standards. Let's see what happens on Monday."

Isfan is scheduled to compete in the men's 55 kilogram
division, while Christine is in the women's 60kg category.

Meanwhile, project manager Tono Soe'oed told The Jakarta Post
that they were taking the overweight matter lightly.

"Both fighters have reached their ideal weight. All we need is
a way to keep them at that weight," he said over the phone.

He said those who failed to maintain their weight could
compete in the free weight class, provided they improve their
performance.

"Should they fail to make any progress, we will either take
their names off the list or place them on the substitute bench,"
he added.

In a separate development, the Indonesian Bowling Association
(PBI) has named a new project manager, Aswin Limansantoso, to
replace David Sitorus who has been fired for his alleged
involvement in a financial scam.

"I don't want to make any comment on David's case because I
want to concentrate on my new duties. I must prepare our bowlers
to reach their best achievement," Aswin said.

"I must maintain the bowlers' teamwork and keep their spirits
high. It is important because we are eying two gold medals from
the trio and team events."

Meanwhile, the Indonesian Equestrian and Horse Racing
Association (Pordasi) has decided to take horses with them to
Malaysia amid the growing concerns over the spread of foot and
mouth disease.

"There is no problem in sending the horses to Malaysia since
we are free of the disease. But problems could occur in our
return home," veterinarian Wirasmono Sukotjo said.

"Biologically, the disease doesn't affect horses but they can
get it through direct contact with infected animals. But I
believe Malaysia has already taken precautions."

He said the government had determined several measures to
prevent the possible spread of the disease, including laboratory
examinations, disinfectant sprays and quarantine.

Meanwhile, Pordasi spokeswoman Larasati said Indonesia had to
send its athletes because there was little risk involved.

"We are facing a US$2,000 fine per rider if we withdraw our
athletes from the event as regulated by the equestrian world
body, FIE," said Larasati, who is also competing in the dressage
events. (nvn)