Asian Games: rowing squad determined to prove worth despite constraints

PALEMBANG, Aug 18 (Bernama) --  Although they have come to Palembang with a 'lack' of resources, Malaysia's rowing squad is determined to prove that their participation in the Asian Games is not merely part of their event schedule, but rather to place themselves among the best in Asia.

Two athletes representing the country in the single sculls and lightweight single sculls events respectively have had to share a racing shell due to the financial constraints faced by the Malaysian Rowing Association (MRA).

Khairuddin Azwi, 23, who will be competing in the single sculls event, said although he had to share a boat with fellow compatriot, Mohamad Amirul Norhadi, it should not be used as an excuse to perform poorly at the Games.

"Six months of intensive preparation and 40 days of intensive training in Bukit Merah (Perak, Malaysia), has really improved my performance.

"The target for my debut in the Asian Games is to put myself in the top six, to qualify for the 'final A'," he told Bernama after undergoing training at the Jakabaring Sport City ahead of the event scheduled for tomorrow morning.

Due to financial constraints, the MRA was unable to transport the athletes' own racing shells, and instead opted rent one from the organiser for USD500 (about RM2,051) during the event.

Meanwhile, for 18-year-old Mohamad Amirul, his father, a former university rowing athlete had been is inspiration leading up to the Asian Games.

"Although I am young, I will use the experience gained from my father as best as possible.

"I want to prove that the sport of rowing can also bring glory to the country, and as well be able to attract new youths to the sport," he said.

-- BERNAMA