Squad out to impress in Asian Games debut
target has been set for their maiden appearance at the Asian Games in Indonesia next month, but the national canoe squad are still determined to do well.
The Olympic Council of Malaysia’s (OCM) decision for the national canoe squad to compete in the Asian Games is seen as a good move as this is the best chance for them to show their capabilities.
It is estimated that the squad will be made up of 52 athletes and officials for three disciplines — men’s traditional boat racing, slalom and polo canoe.
Based on the squad’s preparations which began early this year, and the fact that they achieved positive results in a few competitions, they look good to make an impact and perhaps even cause an upset at the Games, especially in polo canoe.
Squad manager Dr. Jaffry Zakaria said their achievement in finishing third at the Asia Polo Canoe Championship in Batu Pahat, Johor in October last year has given them the boost to go all out when they compete at the Games.
“We are very grateful to OCM for giving us this opportunity to take part in the Asian Games this time round.
“Even though the odds are stacked against us in challenging for any medal, we are confident of pulling off an upset over in Indonesia.
“For example, in the slalom we have two young athletes who will be competing in the Games to garner valuable experience in their quest to represent the country at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
“However, the more difficult test will be for traditional boat racing which we know is dominated by teams from China, South Korea, Japan and Taiwan.
“Whatever it is, our maiden foray at the Asian Games will be good for exposure and gaining valuable experience for our athletes,” said Jaffry.
The national canoe squad are scheduled to begin competition in the slalom discipline from Aug 21-23 in Jakarta, followed by polo canoe and traditional boat racing from Aug 25-27 in Palembang.