Summer spotlight on Brunei
Brunei is set to host the 10th Asia Youth Wushu Championships in August following Sunday’s signing ceremony in the nation’s capital.
According to a report in the Borneo Bulletin, Lim Boon Hwa, newly elected president of the Brunei Darussalam Wushu Federation, signed on behalf of that organization while secretary-general Chan Weng Kit signed on behalf of the Wushu Federation of Asia.
Brunei national wushu coach Li Hui told Xinhua on Monday that hosting such a prestigious competition is beneficial to both the sultanate’s national athletes and its youth in general.
“This competition will definitely be an eye-opening experience for our young athletes. It will help them improve and let them experience the quality of wushu outside of Brunei because those coming to compete are the top athletes in the region,” said Li.
National federation president Lim said the event will be the largest international competition it has ever hosted.
“We hope that with the support from the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council, government agencies and all involved parties, the championship will be a success. This will further develop the sport of wushu and raise the country’s image,” he told the Bulletin.
Some 20 to 30 countries and regions in Asia are expected to compete.
“I hope through this competition more of Brunei’s youth will come to understand, appreciated and participate in wushu, which is a sport that can help them lead healthier lifestyles,” Li told Xinhua.
The coach went on to note that the experience gained by Brunei’s athletes will be invaluable in future international competitions.
“Athletes must participate in competitions because this is how they garner experience. This will help with our preparations for the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. The hosting of this competition is very meaningful and beneficial for Brunei wushu,” he said.
This year’s SEA Games will be held in the Philippines in November and December.
Despite the stiff competition, coach Li believes his charges have what it takes to deliver glory.
“My target for the athletes is gold. We must have confidence that we can win,” he said.
According to the coach, Brunei will compete in all categories at the upcoming competition.
The sultanate will be represented by four athletes in both the U12 and 12-15 categories while eight athletes will wear Brunei’s colors in the 16-18 category.