Lucas Kallang Laeng
KUCHING: The state’s preparations for Sukma XVIII in Kuala Lumpur this year is going on smoothly with some of the teams already carrying out their training programmes.
Sarawak State Sports Council acting director Lucas Kallang Laeng assured there was sufficient budget to ensure that the athletes get the best training.
He said the respective coaches for the 12 sports that Sarawak are taking part in are selecting the potential athletes to represent the state.
“To date, our preparations for Sukma XVIII are on track and many teams have commenced their intensive training,” he said.
“There are also teams which are having their exposure stints such as the fencing team which is now taking part in the Brunei Open beginging Jan 23,” added Lucas.
A total of 22 events will be contested in Sukma XVIII in Kuala Lumpur but the dates for the Games are yet to be fixed.
Sarawak will be taking part in 12 sports namely judo, fencing, kayak, muaythai, bodybuilding, beach volleyball (men’s/women’s), cricket, kabbadi, men’s polo, men’s futsal, women’s softball and handball (men’s/women’s).
The sports that Sarawak is skipping are equestrian, synchronised swimming, silambam, woodball, gymnastics, basketball, track cycling, netball, rugby and table tennis.
At the last Sukma XVI in Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak finished in 11 spot with four gold, nine silver and five bronze medals.