We deserve to be in Podium Programme, say compound archers

THE national compound archers have this message to the National Sports Institute (NSI): “Include us in the Podium Programme.”

They believe they have “done enough” to deserve their places in the elite programme, which is meant to give selected group of athletes an extra edge to win medals at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and Olympics.

The compound squad – led by Mohd Juwaidi Mazuki and Fatin Nurfatehah Mat Salleh – ruled the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games for the second time running when they swept three of the five golds on offer.

After a dismal individual campaign on Wednesday, they bounced back strongly to retain the men, women and mixed team titles.

Malaysia have now claimed seven out of the 10 golds from the two recent editions (they won four in Singapore two years ago). The compound discipline was introduced at the 2005 Manila Games.

Fatin and Co, however, are more than just a major force in the SouthEast Asian region.

Malaysia are now the world No. 20 (men) and No. 18 (women). Both teams are also ranked fifth in Asia.

“I think we have done everything we can to convince them, so it’s all up to NSI,” said Fatin, before leaving for Taiwan for the World University Games.

“We certainly hope to be included. The amount of backing that the Podium Programme offers to athletes is tremendous in terms of funding for tournaments and equipment and, most importantly, sports science.”

There are four men recurve archers – Khairul Anuar Mohamed, Haziq Kamaruddin, Muhd Akmal Nor Hasrin and Muhd Ikram Joni – are in the 117-member Podium programme.

They enjoyed more privileges over the years because it’s an Olympic sport.

But compound archery may not play second fiddle to their recurve counterparts much longer.

World Archery, the world’s governing body for the sport, and USA Archery are making efforts to include compound as a new Olympic event as early as 2024.

Compound archery is already part of the Asian Games, having made its debut at the 2014 Incheon Games in South Korea.

Then, Zaki Mahazan, who is now the national team coach, made the men’s individual semi-finals.

I think we have done everything we can to convince them, so it’s all up to NSI (National Sports Institute).

Fatin Nurfatehah Mat Salleh