Thu, 29 Jun 2000

Sutiyoso accepts second place in PON

JAKARTA (JP): With an enormous difference in the 15th National Games (PON) medal tally between defending champion Jakarta and host East Java, Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso seemed able to accept the reality that the host would take the overall champion title.

Sutiyoso said Wednesday he could understand if Jakarta had to bow out to the host as many national athletes, who previously resided in Jakarta, moved to other provinces especially East Java.

"Of course, I'm disappointed with the fact. It's difficult for Jakarta to trail East Java in the medal tally. But the most important thing is all of our athletes have given their best and maximum efforts," he told The Jakarta Post at the City Hall.

"We must also be aware that many national athletes have migrated especially to East Java. They are now evenly spread and not concentrated here only," he added.

Jakarta is still in the second place with 104 golds, 73 silvers and 82 bronzes. While host East Java clinches its domination by claiming 122 golds, 95 silvers and 103 bronzes.

Sutiyoso, who also chairs the Indonesian Basketball Association (Perbasi), gave an example of Jakarta women's basketball team.

"East Java has eight national players while Jakarta only has two," he said. "Similar things also happen in other sports including cycling and gymnastics."

When asked if the administration would give cash bonuses to medal-winning athletes, Sutiyoso only said it was being prepared.

"Of course we'll provide cash bonuses for the medal-winning athletes but I do not know the amount. We'll have to wait for other provinces to give bonuses to their athletes."

The administration will also give special condolences to Jakarta gymnast Jonathan Sianturi whose father was killed onboard Argo Bromo Anggrek train bound for Jakarta from Surabaya.

"We'll wait after PON is over to think what kind of attention will be given to the family. Our contingent will visit the family, at least the gymnastics team will," Sutiyoso said.

Jonathan won three gold medals in PON. (nvn)