Julius still waiting for coach

PARA swimmer Julius Jaranding finds it hard to believe that despite being under the Podium Programme since early this year, he has yet to see the services of a coach.

“I’m just training but I don’t have a coach.

“I am frank about it... I do not have a coach. I have requested for one, so I’m a bit bewildered by it.”

The 31-year-old, who was included into the Podium Programme earlier this year, said other trainers may have been assigned but not specifically to fit his needs.

“There are trainers but there’s a lot to look after so I don’t really blame them for it.”

Julius, who won a silver medal in the men’s 50m breaststroke SB13 category at the Asean Para Games yesterday, wants to keep the momentum going as he focuses on the men’s 100m breaststroke and freestyle where he aims for more medals.

But, as for now, the Paralympian hopes there will be a coach for him next year as he admits Malaysia need to step it up in the sport as Indonesia have gone light years ahead.

“Indonesia is conquering the scene right now and the ones who are breaking records are all new faces.”

Julius, who suffers from visual impairment, hopes more athletes in his categories can be developed to bring the sport to new heights.

Julius, who hails from Sarawak, is the National Paralympic Games record holder for the men’s 50m freestyle S13 (30.09s) and breaststroke SB13 (36.21s).

He will be out to better his personal best again today and tomorrow in the 100m freestyle and 100m breaststroke, respectively. Farah Azharie