Vietnam’s track-and-field aims for 10 golds at SEA Games 27

Source: The Voice of Vietnam

Vietnam’s track-and-field athletes have set a target of 10 gold medals at the upcoming 27th Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 27) slated for December 9-18 in Myanmar, maintaining the country’s place in the region’s top three. 

In the previous SEA Games, with nine gold medals, track-in-field brought home the second largest number of golds after gymnastics (11 medals).

This year, as host Myanmar eliminates gymnastics in the list of competition, track-and-field is expected to be the main “gold mine” for Vietnamese sports.

Athletes at the biggest sport competition in the region will compete for 460 sets of medal in 33 sport events, of which track-and-field will account for 46 medal sets. The Vietnam Athletics Federation is hopeful to bag medals in many categories, including women’s 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m run, race walking, high jump and triple-step jump, as well as men’s 800m, 400m sprint, race walking and decathlon.

According to Lam Quang Thanh, deputy head of the General Department of Sports and Physical Training and head of the Vietnamese sports delegation, the country’s track-and-field is capable of earning more than nine gold medals.

Since SEA Games 21 in 2003, Vietnam’s track-and-field has been always placed in the region’s top three.

Link: http://english.vov.vn/CultureSports/Sports/Vietnams-trackandfield-aims-for-10-golds-at-SEA-Games-27/266244.vov

25th FIBA Asia Championship for Women 2013

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Date: 27th October - 3rd November 2013


Results/Winners

Level 1 - Rankings

1st - Japan
2nd - South Korea
3rd - China
4th - Chinese Taipei
5th - India
6th - Kazakhstan **

Level 2 - Rankings

1st - Thailand *
2nd - Malaysia
3rd - Indonesia
4th - Philippines
5th - Uzbekistan
6th - Hong Kong

* Qualifier for Level I next edition
** Demoted to Level II

Preliminary Round

Level 1

Day 1 - October 27 

Japan def. Kazakhstan (94-59)
Chinese Taipei def. India (85-57)
South Korea def. China (72-70)

Day 2 - October 28

South Korea def. India (109-62)
China def. Kazakhstan (103-62)
Japan def. Chinese Taipei (69-57)

Day 3 - October 29  

China def. India (97-36)
Chinese Taipei def. Kazakhstan (87-57)
Japan def. South Korea (78-71) OT

Day 4 - October 30 

South Korea def. Kazakhstan (92-56)
Japan def. India (81-40)
China - Chinese Taipei

Day 5 - October 31 

India - Kazakhstan
China - Japan
Chinese Taipei - South Korea

Level 2

Day 1 - October 27 

Philippines def. Hong Kong (87-57)
Malaysia def. Indonesia (61-49)
Thailand def. Uzbekistan (60-41)

Day 2 - October 28

Indonesia def. Hong Kong (79-45)
Philippines def. Uzbekistan (62-55)
Thailand def. Malaysia (60-56)

Day 3 - October 29  

Philippines def. Thailand (65-59)
Indonesia def. Uzbekistan (71-60)
Malaysia def. Hong Kong (73-38)

Day 4 - October 30 

Malaysia def. Philippines (60-56)
Thailand def. Indonesia (75-61) OT
Uzbekistan def. Hong Kong (70-62)

Day 5 - October 31  

Malaysia def. Uzbekistan (63-41)
Indonesia def. Philippines (60-54)
Thailand - Hong Kong

Final Round

Day 6 - November 2

Battle to enter Level 1

India def. Malaysia (74-59)
Thailand def. Kazakhstan (63-57)

 Semi-Finals

Korea def. China (71-66)
Japan def. Chinese Taipei (74-56)

Day 7  - November 3

Battle for 3rd: China def. Chinese Taipei (61-53)

Championship Match:  Japan def. South Korea (65-43)

Burma to Hand Out Free Temporary SIM Cards to SEA Games Participants

Source: Irriwaddy

A woman holds up a SIM card, which she won in a June lottery, in Rangoon on June 24, 2013. (Photo: Reuters / Soe Zeya Tun)

Burma’s notoriously corrupt and underdeveloped telecommunications sector will get a boost with the distribution of 30,000 free temporary SIM cards to local athletes and their international counterparts, as well as trainers, judges and other personnel directly involved in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games, according to the national telecoms provider.

About 6,000 athletes from 11 countries are expected to participate in the 27th SEA Games, which will be held from Dec. 11-22, and will mark the first time Burma has hosted the biannual competition in more than four decades.

“We will give commemorative SIM cards with the SEA Games logo to make communication for participants in the SEA Games more convenient, without [requiring] payment,” Theinhoke, deputy general manager of Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications (MPT), told The Irrawaddy.

The cards will only be operational from November through January 2014.

The cost of using a mobile phone in Burma has long been far higher than in neighboring countries, largely because of a monopoly held by the military-dominated MPT.

SIM cards in Burma are issued entirely under the auspices of government-owned MPT, which just this April rolled out a lottery system to offer SIM cards at a price of 1,500 kyats (less than US$2). That price, close to the going rate for a SIM card in neighboring countries, has been inflated on the black market by the limited availability of the new issuances, and SIM cards still regularly sell for about $150.

For many years, SIM cards in Burma were priced at about $3,000. They dropped to around $500 in 2011, and were selling for about $200 a year later. The awarding of operating licenses to two international telecommunications firms in July is expected to bring the price of SIM cards down to a level comparable to the rest of the region, but that drop in rates is not expected until sometime mid-2014.

Theinhoke said that in addition to the free commemorative cards, GSM SIM cards lasting one month and costing 20,000 kyats would be available for SEA Games guests who travel to Burma to cheer on the athletic delegations of the competing Southeast Asian nations.

All athletes and Games attendees will be able to purchase the one-month duration SIM cards at the Rangoon, Naypyidaw and Mandalay airports, as well as at the sporting complexes of Wunna Theikdi and Zeyar Thiri in Naypyidaw, and the Zabuthiri athletes village, according to a statement from the Games’ Organizing Committee.

Games events will be held primarily in Naypyidaw, with Rangoon, Mandalay and New Saung beach also hosting events.

A mobile handset rental service will be available at the three airports and designated SEA Games venues. Top-up cards with the SEA Games logo will be available for 5,000 kyats and both the commemorative SIM cards and the one-month issuances will also accept top-up cards purchased on the current local market.

Upgraded mobile Internet services are also expected to be available to smartphone users at SEA Games venues. Theinhoke said installation of fourth generation (4G) mobile Internet networks at Games venues was 90 percent complete. Crews began installing the upgraded network in July.

Currently, the most advanced mobile Internet network system in Burma is 3G.

Link: http://www.irrawaddy.org/burma/burma-hand-free-temporary-sim-cards-sea-games-participants.html

Athletes should go to SEA Games on merit

Source: The Star Online

S. Navinraj qualified on merit to represent the country at the Myanmar SEA Games. However, the National Sports Council want to send Lee Hup Wei instead, reasoning that he should be given another chance because of his back injury.

OUTSIDE interference is an ugly word. And, sadly, it has reared its ugly head again – this time in the selection of athletes to the Myanmar SEA Games in December.

The Malaysian Athletics Federation (MAF) have already selected their athletes for the Games and there was no place for two veterans with a glorious past – 400m hurdler Noraseela Khalid and high jumper Lee Hup Wei.

As the parent body governing athletics in the country, the MAF have the right to decide who gets to go and who doesn’t.

However, the National Sports Council (NSC) have seen it fit to meddle in the MAF’s selection process.
The MAF had done things the proper way – there was no favouritism and selection was based on current form.

Credit to the MAF for having set a high benchmark and for learning from their mistakes.

Every selection must be accounted for and there is no room for passengers, even if they happen to be Noraseela and Hup Wei.

Yes, these two have contributed so much in the past but the fact is they failed to beat the qualifying mark for the Games.

Noraseela, who turned 34 last month, underwent heel surgery in April and only resumed training last month.

She featured in the Malaysian Open on Oct 20 to try and qualify for the SEA Games.

But she failed dismally.

The 2011 Palembang gold medallist finished a disappointing fifth and last with a poor time of 61.54 in the meet. The SEA Games qualifying mark was 58.97.

Guess what NSC director general Datuk Seri Zolkples Embong’s reason was for wanting to send Noraseela to Myanmar? Because no Malaysian woman has qualified for the event.

Why do the NSC want send to an athlete, who is well past her prime, to the Games?

Then, there is Hup Wei.

The 25-year-old was among six high jumpers who qualified on merit for the Games.

Unfortunately, only two athletes from each country are allowed to feature in each event.

So, the MAF decided that only the top two finishers in the Malaysian Open would be selected for the Games.

Nauraj Singh Randhawa (2.20m) and S. Navinraj (2.15m) came up with the goods and were selected.

Three-time SEA Games gold medallist Hup Wei could only finish fourth with a height of 2.10m.

Guess what Zolkples’ argument was in preferring Hup Wei to Navinraj?

“Hup Wei could have won the Malaysian Open if not for the back injury he suffered during the meet. Hup Wei should be given another chance to qualify for the Games by allowing him to compete in the Pahang Open on Nov 10 as entry by name is on Nov 15,” said Zolkples.

MAF president Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad had made it clear that the Malaysian Open was the last meet for athletes to qualify for the Games.

Noraseela and Hup Wei knew it, and they blew it.

Why do the NSC want to undermine what the MAF had done?

Kudos to the MAF for sticking to their decision. They should not allow NSC to interfere with their selection criteria.

The NSC should just focus on what they are supposed to do – providing funds to the NSAs.
In other words, please mind you own business, NSC!




Link: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Say-What/2013/10/30/Athletes-should-go-to-SEA-Games-on-merit.aspx

Quartet out of Sea Games

Source: New Straits Times

 

KEY PLAYERS: Eldstal, Robbat, Wan Zack Haikal and Fandi are all carrying injuries

 

FOUR regulars -- Junior Eldstal, Gary Steven Robbat, Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor and Fandi Othman -- have all been ruled out of December's Sea Games in Myanmar due to injuries.

The quartet, who have senior caps (including exhibition matches), are key players of the national Under-23 squad.

Eldstal suffered a minor back injury recently and is due to undergo surgery in Kuala Lumpur next week.

A key member of Malaysia's win in last month's Merdeka Tournament, Eldstal, a versatile midfielder, is expected to be out for about six weeks.

As for Wan Zack Haikal, the winger suffered a knee injury during training with his Japan Football League (Division Three) side FC Ryukyu in Okinawa.

The 22-year-old underwent surgery to repair an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) problem and is ruled out for six months.

Robbat has not been training for six months after injuring his back during a training stint in Slovakia while Fandi is out with a knee cartilage problem.

The extent of Robbat's injury was not diagnosed properly while Fandi suffered a recurring knee injury after given the go-ahead to train without regaining full fitness.

National youth coach Ong Kim Swee admitted the quartet's absence will be a setback ahead of the Sea Games but said he has replacements.

"I cannot be negative. We have options but of course it would have been better if they were available for the Sea Games," said Kim Swee yesterday.

"Except for state-based players, the others have been together as a unit with Young Tigers A. They have gone for training stints in Europe and also played in tournaments. I have to make do with what I have but everyone is competitive and can play in big matches."

The availability of striker Izzaq Faris Ramlan and defender Amer Saidin, however, gives Kim Swee more options. The duo reported for training recently after recovering from injuries.

Kim Swee's side, minus senior team members, will play in their final tournament ahead of the Sea Games in the Under-23 BIDC Cup, which starts on Saturday in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Malaysia are in Group B with the hosts and Laos while Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam make up Group A.

The team, who leave tomorrow, face Cambodia on Saturday before taking on Laos two days later. The top two teams from each group will square-off in the semi-finals on Nov 8 followed by the final on Nov 10.

"I have picked 22 players. Those dropped are S. Sivanesan (Negri Sembilan), Zubir Azmi (Terengganu), Muhd Safwan Hashim (Armed Forces) and Amer Saidin (Tigers A).

"Sivanesan, Zubir and Safwan reported injured while Amer needs time to regain fitness," Kim Swee added.

Sarawak winger Ashri Chuchu and Perak midfielder Nasir Basharuddin are the only state-based players in the team.

Link: http://www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/quartet-out-of-sea-games-1.387971

2013 AFF Futsal Championship

Location: Krungthep Thonburi Indoor Stadium
              Bangkok, Thailand

Date: 19th - 27th October 2013

2013 AFF (Miracle of Life) Futsal Championship

Results/Winners

Champion - Thailand

Runner Up - Australia

3rd Place - Vietnam

4th Place -Indonesia



Fixtures

Group Stage - Preliminaries

Group A

     Day 1 - 19th October

• Game 1: Vietnam def. Malaysia (2-1)
• Game 2: Philippines def. Brunei (5-3)

     Day 2 - 20th October

• Game 1: Thailand def. Philippines (20-1)
• Game 2: Malaysia def. Brunei (8-4)

     Day 3 - 21st October

• Game 1: Thailand def. Brunei (8-1)
• Game 2: Vietnam def. Philippines (10-1)

     Day 4 - 22nd October

• Game 1: Vietnam def. Brunei (4-2)
• Game 2: Thailand def. Malaysia (2-0)

     Day 5 - 23rd October

• Game 1: Malaysia def. Philippines (17-2)
• Game 2: Thailand - Vietnam

Group B

     Day 1 - 19th October

• Game 1: Indonesia def. Myanmar (5-3)
• Game 2: Laos drew with Timor Leste (2-2)

     Day 2 - 20th October

• Game 1: Australia def.Timor Leste (8-1)
• Game 2: Myanmar def. Laos (6-1)

     Day 3 - 21st October

• Game 1: Australia def. Laos (17-0)
• Game 2:Indonesia def. Timor Leste (12-1)

     Day 4 - 22nd October

• Game 1: Indonesia def. Laos (12-0)
• Game 2: Australia def. Myanmar (4-0)

     Day 5 - 23rd October

• Game 1: Myanmar def. Timor Leste (12-0)
• Game 2: Australia def. Indonesia (7-3)

Knock-Out Stage - Semi Finals

Day 6 - 26th October

• Semi-Finals 1: Thailand def. Indonesia (10-4)

• Semi-Finals 2: Australia def. Vietnam (6-1)

Finals

Day 7 - 27th October

• For 3rd Place Match: Vietnam def. Indonesia (7-3)

• Championship Match: Thailand def. Australia (2-1)

Shakila aims for golden kick at SEA Games

Source: The Star Online

Having taken up karate at the age of four, Shakila Sani Jefry Krisnan is determined to win gold at the Myanmar SEA Games in December.

KUALA LUMPUR: Shakila Sani Jefry Krisnan is ready to chop her way to her first karate gold medal in the 27th SEA Games in Myanmar.

Shakila only managed a bronze and silver in the women’s under-61kg and team kumite respectively at the 2011 SEA Games in Palembang, Indonesia.

The 21-year-old, who broke into the national team in 2008, looks destined for a bright future in karate.

“My inspiration has always been my late grandfather ... he was really interested in karate when I was younger. His interest rubbed off on me and I would fight with my older brother at home.

I won my first medal at the age of five in an interclub competition,” said the exponent, who hails from Kapar, Selangor.

Shakila joined the Suba Karate Academy in Kapar at the tender age of four and has grown into a talented exponent.

“I have great memories there (Suba Karate Academy) as I enjoyed training there ... and it was where I grew up as a fighter. I will certainly not forget where I came from,” she said.

But her hopes of returning from Myanmar in December with a gold medal will depend on whether she can get over the psychological fear of injury.

She was out for three months with a back injury and only returned to training recently.

She had to skip the Third Islamic Solidarity Games in South Sumatra, Indonesia, and the pre-SEA Games in Myanmar – both in September.

“I underwent a smooth rehabilitation and am ready for the Games in Myanmar. I’ll give it my all and go for gold,” promised Shakila, who added that she would not pull her punches although she has just returned from an injury.

“I believe that Myanmar, Indonesia and Vietnam will be a threat but I will give it my best.”




Link: http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Other-Sport/2013/10/19/Shakila-aims-for-golden-kick-at-SEA-Games.aspx

Jackie Wong eyes better finish at SEA Games

Source: The Borneo Post

KUCHING: National hammer thrower, Jackie Wong Siew Cheer is aiming to improve his performance at the coming Myanmar SEA Games in December.

The 21-year-old university undergraduate is aiming to hit the 60m mark after winning gold in 57.46m at the recent Malaysia Open Athletics Championship in Kuala Lumpur.

“I am training very hard to hit and stabilise my throws on 60m but I hope it will be even further,” he said when contacted in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Jackie was the bronze medallist at the 2011 SEA Games where he achieved a distance of 58.30m.

At the recent 3rd Islamic Solidarity Games in Palembang, Indonesia, he shattered the 20-year-old record of 58.52m set by fellow Sarawakian Wong Tee Kui at the 1993 SEA Games in Singapore by registering a throw of 59.53m in the athletics competition.

Jackie won gold at the 2010 Sukma in Melaka with a throw of 55.14m and two years later in Pahang, he rewrote his own record with a distance of 55.25m.

“Actually, the result was under my expectation. I wish to do better in the coming SEA Games and do better than the last SEA Games,” he said of his achievement at the Malaysia Open from Oct 19-20.

Although Jackie did not meet the qualifying mark set by Olympic Council of Malaysia, he booked his ticket on the merit that he is ranked third in the discipline South-east Asia.

Joining Jackie on the flight to Myanmar is Michael Sia Sung Dak also from Sarikei who won the silver at the recent Malaysia Open and he qualified as one of the nine back-up athletes in preparation for the 2015 Singapore SEA Games.

Three other Sarawakians namely Casier Renee Kelly Lee (women’s hammer throw), Mohd Jironi Ridzuan (men’s 800m) and Mohd Arif Zulhilmi Alet (men’s 400m) also qualified for the Games.

Link:  http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/26/jackie-wong-eyes-better-finish-at-sea-games/

4th ASEAN School Games

The 4th ASEAN School Games was hosted by Indonesia in Surabaya. It was the first time that Indonesia hosted this annual event from June 28 to July 6, 2012. Seven countries participated and 11 sports were contested in this event.

Events:                                                                                      Medal Tally:

• Track and Field
• Sepak Takraw (Boys)
• Golf
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Gymnastic
• Swimming
• Table Tennis
• Tennis
• Volleyball
• Pencak Silat

3rd ASEAN School Games

The 3rd ASEAN School Games was played in Singapore, Singapore. Philippines won its first ever Gold Medal while Brunei got no medal as they had only two teams who participated in the races, the first time since the start of ASEAN School Games started. The games was held from June 30 to July 8, 2011.

Events:                                                                                   Medal Tally:            

• Badminton
• Basketball
• Golf
• Gymnastics
• Hockey
• Netball
• Sepak Takraw
• Aquatics
• Table Tennis
• Track and Field
• Volleyball
• Rugby
• Skiing
• Triathlon

2nd ASEAN School Games

The 2nd ASEAN School Games was played in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam debuted in this game. The games was held from July 12 - 22, 2010.

Events:                                                       Medal Tally:

• Badminton
• Basketball
• Golf
• Gymnastics
• Hockey
• Netball
• Rhythmic Gymnastics
• Sepak Takraw
• Swimming
• Track and Field
• Volleyball

1st ASEAN School Games

The 1st ASEAN School Games was held in Suphanburi, Thailand from July 20 - 29, 2009 with 10 sports. 

Medal Tally

Events                                                

• Athletics
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Golf
• Gymnastics
• Sepak Takraw
• Swimming
• Table tennis
• Tennis
• Volleyball

Information

• Indonesia competed in 9 sports with 122 athletes. 

PH preparation for SEAG smooth as silk, says PSC

Source: Inquirer

Except for some minor kinks, the Philippine preparation for the 27th Southeast Asian Games has been smooth as silk for the Dec. 11 to 22 meet in Burma (Myanmar). 

“Everything is moving forward, I’m happy with the way the SEAG task force has been working,” said Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chief Richie Garcia. “They’ve been working overtime and we’re glad for the support being given by national sports associations.” 

So far, the only hitch Garcia sees is the abrupt leave of American conditioning coach Ryan Flaherty, who recently suffered from an illness that forced him to seek treatment in the US. 

“He’s communicating and told us he’ll come back. It’s a pity that this happened. The athletes are responding well to his training program,” said Garcia. 

Flaherty, a speed coach who helped the US track team win a silver medal in the 2012 London Olympics, was assigned in Baguio City to train the national tracksters as well as other athletes based in the country’s Summer capital. 

“I hope the local coaches had been able to pick up some of his techniques, Ryan was open about it,” said Garcia. “The athletes are still doing his routine.” 

Garcia said Flaherty is still listed as part of the Philippine delegation of 208 athletes and 77 officials. 

Link: http://sports.inquirer.net/126021/ph-preparation-for-seag-smooth-as-silk-says-psc

Athletes gear up for coming SEA Games

Source: Mizzima

Photo: mmseagames2013.com

A total of 75 Myanmar track and field athletes are gearing up for coming SEA Games with vigorous efforts, official media reported Monday.

Aiming at sweeping the medals in the SEA games, the short-listed 75  athletes are under training of 31 coaches at Gold Camp in Nay Pyi Taw, said the New Light of Myanmar.

Track and field events will be held at the 30,000-seat Wunna Theikdi Gymnasium in Nay Pyi Taw from Dec.15 to 19.

President believes SEA Games to bring glittering future to youths

Source: Mizzima

President U Thein Sein inspected preparations for hosting the 27th Southeast Asian Games at Wunna Theikdi stadium in Nay Pyi Taw on October 20, 2013. Photo: 27seagames2013.com

President U Thein Sein expressed his belief that the 27th Southeast Asian Games will bring a glittering future to Myanmar youths, official media reported on Monday.

In the speech addressed by U Thein Sein during his inspection tour to Wunna Theikdi Stadium in Nay Pyi Taw, he pointed out that hosting the SEA Games is to create better future for the youths, reported the New Light of Myanmar.

He urged the athletes to pour out vigorous efforts in respective sports competitions to grab victory.

He called on the Leading Organizing Committee to arrange and organize the games properly.

The 27th SEA games is the great opportunity for Myanmar as a host in 44 years, he added.

A total of 33 sports events in the SEA games will be held in Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay and Pathein (Ngwehsaung Beach) from Dec.11 to 22 with 4,350 medals.

Link: http://www.mizzima.com/culture/sport/item/10380-president-believes-sea-games-to-bring-glittering-future-to-youths

Sambos pumped for SEA Games

Source: Phnom Penh Post

Cambodia’s bodybuilding medal hopes for the upcoming SEA Games, Sambo Norn (left) and Sambo Nan, flex their muscles during a photo shoot in Phnom Penh. YEUN PONLOK

Sambo Norn and Sambo Nan have been intensifying their private training in eager anticipation of Cambodia’s inaugural appearance at the SEA Games bodybuilding competition in Myanmar this December. 

Despite being based out of Bangkok for the past four years and competing regularly in bodybuilding tournament in Thailand, the beefcake brothers have sworn allegiance to the Kingdom’s flag, which they will proudly fly for the first time in the event.

“We used to be porters [at a shop on the Thai-Cambodian border] earning little in the way of wages. Then one of our friends asked us to train for bodybuilding,” Sambo Norn told the Post.

“Fortunately, we were given the chance to show our talent on stage in Thailand, and after that, we joined competitions very often as a part-time job.

“We got invitations from many countries to join their federation, but we always remembered who we are and where we’re from. So we applied for permission from the Cambodian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation [CBFF] and the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, and eventually were accepted to represent the Kingdom in this sport at the 2013 SEA Games.”

Sambo Nan also noted they had been approached by a Thai club to become naturalised Thai bodybuilders but had turned down the offer. “We’re Cambodian, so I’d rather represent our nation,” he said.

CBFF President Raksmey Sokmongkol told the Post the federation and the NOCC had supported the Sambo siblings for the past four years with an eye on SEA Games participation. 

“I believe they’ll get a positive result at this major event as they have experience performing in China and some other countries in Asia,” he said.

NOCC Secretary General Vath Chamroeun added that the CBFF had yet to unify its national clubs and associations, so it was helpful that the brothers’ were training abroad. 

“[Cambodia] is looking for more than 10 gold medals from SEA Games,” he said, adding that the NOCC had decided to send a delegation of bodybuilders to Myanmar even before the Sambos have submitted their request.

According to the NOCC official, Cambodia expect to grab podium places in vovinam, taekwondo, English boxing, wrestling, kempo, petanque, wushu and bodybuilding.

Link: http://www.phnompenhpost.com/sport/sambos-pumped-sea-games

Myanmar to hold pre-SEA Games tournaments in Yangon

Source: Mizzima

Myanmar will hold pre-SEA Games tournaments including shooting and hockey in Yangon with an aim of getting experiences ahead of the 27th SEA Games, according to local sports circle Wednesday.

Myanmar Friendship Shooting Tournament will be held at International Shooting Range in North Dagon Township of Yangon from Oct. 27 to 30.

The shooting tournament will be joined by four ASEAN countries, the sources said, adding that altogether 36 medals -- 12 gold, 12 silver and 12 bronze will be presented to winners.

Another pre-SEA Games Hockey Test Match is scheduled to take place at Theinphyu Hockey Field in Yangon from Oct. 27 to 31.

The hockey test match will be joined by Thai hockey team and first and second prizes will be awarded.

Link: http://www.mizzima.com/culture/sport/item/10406-myanmar-to-hold-pre-sea-games-tournaments-in-yangon

Pinoy judokas punch tickets to SEA Games after winning golds in Myanmar

Source: Spin.Ph

FIVE Filipinos led by veteran Helen Dawa won gold medals in the Southeast Asian Judo Championships in Naypyitaw, Myanmar.

Dawa bagged the gold in the 48kg class, while Jenielou Mosqueda topped the 57kg weight division.

Bryn Quillotes claimed the gold in the 60kg weight, and Lloyd Dennis Catipon and Gilbert Ramirez topped the 66kg and 73kg men's division, respectively.

Philippine Judo Federation president Dave Carter said the gold winners are now assured of going to the Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar, based on the prerequisite set by the Philippine SEA Games Task Force.

 “As per condition laid out, gold and silver medalists in this event will be included in the delegation for the 27th SEA Games,” said Carter.

Three more judokas in Fil-Japanese Kyomi Watanabe, Kodo Nakano, and Kenji Yahata will also be competing for the gold and berths to the SEA Games.

Link:  http://www.spin.ph/sports/combat-sports/news/pinoy-judokas-punch-tickets-to-sea-games-after-winning-golds-in-myanmar

Thai chief stays positive despite SEA Games controversy

Source: Bangkok Post


Thana Chaiprasit, Thailand's chief of delegation, believes the country will still fare well at the SEA Games in Myanmar in December, despite the host nation's decision to drop several popular international sports from the Games in favour of lesser known disciplines.

"I don't think it makes for a fair Games," Thana said. "But, they are the host nation, so they can use the opportunity to choose what they want.

"I think we can do very well in the sports other than those. In fact, we can be the number one nation in the international sports."

Myanmar's selection of sports for this year's SEA Games raised some concerns after it decided to not include popular sports like tennis, beach volleyball and gymnastics, choosing instead to include relatively unknown sports such as chinlone, vovinam and kempo.

Opponents have argued that Myanmar's choices have stacked the competition in its favour.

"They have allocated a lot of medals to these sports as well," said Thana, adding that nearly 100 medals and 60 events have been set for those sports. "I think they want to be the number one in the medal standings, that is why they did that."

It is not the first time this has happened. In 2011, host Indonesia took criticism after it added a whopping 12 rollerskating events, none of which had been played at the SEA Games before. The Indonesian players predictably dominated the competition.

The latest controversy in Myanmar has prompted Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines and Malaysia to protest the rules. The Philippines also decided to send a reduced delegation of athletes as a symbol of its dissatisfaction with Myanmar's choices.

Singapore tried to spark changes earlier this year when it called for a special assembly of the SEA Games Federation to address the matter in April. Thailand was among several countries in favour of the proposal.

"We tried," Thana said. "But some of the other countries liked it the other way, and we could not make the decision alone."

Thana said the issue had cast a negative shadow over the Games, which were first created to be a symbol of unity between Southeast Asian countries. He added that the event would have a lot to gain if the list of sports did not change year-to-year.

"It would raise the prestige of the Games and give it more respect internationally," he said. "All countries would have a fair chance. For instance, this year Thailand doesn't even have athletes who can compete in vovinam or kempo."

Singapore, which will host the 28th SEA Games in 2015, has already committed to a more traditional list of international sports to ensure the Games are fair.

"I hope that after Singapore hosts the Games it will set an example for other countries and we can put an end to this," said Thana, who added that if Thailand was awarded the Games in the future, it would do the same thing.

Link:  http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/sports/375441/thai-chief-stays-positive-despite-sea-games-controversy

Myanmar President inspects preparatory work for 27th SEA Games

Source: Eleven

President Thein Sein inspects preparatory work for SEA Games in Nay Pyi Taw (Photo - EMG)

Myanmar President Thein Sein spent part of Sunday inspecting facilities being prepared for the 27th SEA Games in Nay Pyi Taw.

At Wonnatheikdi Sports Zone in the official capital, he met with officials responsible for the works, along with officials from the organizing committee for the Games, who summarized some of the work being done.

Minister Tint San, the committee chairman, told the president that 14 sub-committees are undertaking preparatory work for the Games, which will include 33 sport categories to be facilitated in Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay and Pathein (Ngwe Saung Beach).

Of these categories, he said, 28 events will be hosted in Nay Pyi Taw, seven in Yangon, one in Mandalay and one at Ngwe Saung.

Other ministries such as Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Population, Construction, Electrical Power, Education, and Energy are also cooperating with the committee, he said.

The minister for sports said that the ministries concerned have reached agreements worth Yuan 211 million (Ks 33.72 billion) with China’s General Bureau of Sports for the Games.

Link: http://www.elevenmyanmar.com/sports/3809-myanmar-president-inspects-preparatory-work-for-27th-sea-games

MPT to provide mobile SIM cards for foreign athletes

Source: Eleven

Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) will hand out 30,000 mobile SIM cards to foreign athletes participating in the Southeast Asian Games to be hosted in Myanmar in December.

"MPT will provide three month mobile SIM cards to international athletes who will participate in the SEA Games. Those SIM cards will be provided only by MPT. Other companies will not be involved in providing SIM cards," said Thein Hoke, Deputy General Manager from MPT.

The state-owned MPT will also provide mobile SIM cards to participants including referees and coaches. All SIM cards will last three months. They also plan to install Wi-Fi at most venues in Yangon during the SEA Games.

The 27th SEA Games will be hosted in Myanmar from December 10 to 22, and events will be held in Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw, Mandalay and Ngwe Saung Beach, in the Ayeyawady Region.

The opening ceremony of SEA Games will take place at Wunnatheidi Sport Ground in Nay Pyi Taw.

Link: http://www.elevenmyanmar.com/sports/3833-mpt-to-provide-mobile-sim-cards-for-foreign-athletes

Myanmar president believes SEA Games to bring glittering future to youths

Source: Global Times

Myanmar President U Thein Sein expressed his belief that the 27th Southeast Asian Games will bring a glittering future to Myanmar youths, official media reported on Monday.

In the speech addressed by U Thein Sein during his inspection tour to Wunna Theikdi Stadium in Nay Pyi Taw, he pointed out that hosting the SEA Games is to create better future for the youths, reported the New Light of Myanmar.

He urged the athletes to pour out vigorous efforts in respective sports competitions to grab victory.

He called on the Leading Organizing Committee to arrange and organize the games properly.

The 27th SEA games is the great opportunity for Myanmar as a host in 44 years, he added.

A total of 33 sports events in the SEA games will be held in Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay and Pathein (Ngwehsaung Beach) from Dec.11 to 22 with 4,350 medals. 

Link: http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/819199.shtml#.UmkgwVP4tn0

Two state cyclists selected for SEA Games

Source: The Borneo Post

KUCHING: State mountain bike (MTB) ace Junaidah Juss has finally received official confirmation from Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) that she is competing in the December SEA Games in Myanmar.

Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS) chief cycling coach, Dzukaflee Hassan, told The Borneo Post yesterday that the official letter is timely to allow Junaidah to switch her focus to just training and taking part in competitive races for exposure.

A copy of the letter has been extended to the rider’s employer as well. The 25-year-old rider from Sematan works as a service assistant at Plaza Merdeka.

“From now on, Junaidah is released from her duties and is on unpaid leave until the SEA Games is over,” the coach said.

In a related development, it is also confirmed that road bike rider Caroline Wong is bound for the SEA Games. 19-year-old Caroline, who impressed national selectors at this year’s Sukma (Malaysia Games), has been training with the rest of the national squad since June.

Link:  http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/22/two-state-cyclists-selected-for-sea-games/

Nat’l coach focused on SEA Games

Source: The Brunei Times

NATIONAL sepak takraw coach Ittiphol Chomchaissak will take no part in training the athletes for the International Sepak Takraw Federation Super Series at the end of the month.

Though Brunei have the Super Series in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, to look forward to from Oct 31-Nov 3, Ittophol said his main target is the Dec 11-22 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Myanmar.

Ittiphol revealed that Brunei will be sending its junior team to Sabah for the final leg of the tournament.

“Right now training is going well and I think we will have a chance at doing well this year,” said Ittiphol last night.

Brunei will be taking part in three of the five events on offer; double team event, double regu event and hoop event.

Countries can also take part in the team event and regu event but are limited to three choices.

“We have a good chance because Thailand who are the world champions aren’t taking part in the double’s event,” said Ittiphol.

“Myanmar and Indonesia are strong contenders to take first and second place but third is open for anyone to win.

“I have been here for 12 years and haven’t won a medal in the SEA Games yet, so it would be a good feeling if we can.

“We will be travelling to Thailand from November 4 to 20 for our pre-SEA Games warm-up and it will be good for us because we will be able to learn from them,” added the Thai.

Md Shukri Jaineh, Ismail Ang and Marzuki Munap are the returning trio from the previous edition in Indonesia two years ago.

They are joined by Humaidi Brahim, Abd Hadi Ariffin Matazi and Mohd Hafizzuddin Jamaludin.

All six players will see action in both the team and hoop events while the players have yet to be determined for the doubles event.

Ittiphol was speaking on the sidelines of a thanksgiving ceremony, as well as Aidil Adha celebration, which the Brunei Darussalam Sepak Takraw Association (Pestabaru) organised last night.

The celebration was also held to congratulate the sepak takraw team for their recent achievements in the King’s Cup in Thailand and Borneo Games in Labuan.

“I’d like to congratulate the team for winning silver in the Division I team event and bronze in the hoop event during the Kings Cup in Thailand last month – and also to the Under-21 team that won gold in the regu and silver in the doubles event,” Pestabaru president Pg Ali Hj Hassan Pg DSLJ Hj Abas told The Brunei Times.

“So far this year we have hosted five tournaments and hopefully we will be able to hold one more in December,” he added.

Brunei lost out on gold in the Division 1 team event after losing to the Philippines in the final.

Brunei beat Indonesia, Singapore and Vietnam en-route to winning bronze in the hoop event.

Right after the King’s Cup was the second round of the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) Super Series 2013, also in Thailand, where they finished ninth in the 12-team tournament.

Amongst others at the ceremony at the Multipurpose Hall of the Menglait Sports Complex were council members, coaches, referees and athletes.

Link: http://www.bt.com.bn/sports-national/2013/10/23/nat%E2%80%99l-coach-focused-sea-games

Pandelela to defend her title at SEA Games

Source: Borneo Post

KUCHING: Olympic Games bronze medalist Pandelela Rinong is determined to defend the SEA Games gold medal that she won in Palembang, Indonesia two years ago.

The 10-metre individual platform will be the only event which she will compete in at this year’s 27th edition of the region’s biggest sports event to be held in Nay Pyi Daw, Myanmar in December.

Speaking to The Borneo Post yesterday, Pandelela revealed that she and 10 other national divers will travel to Guangzhou, China at the end of this month for their final preparations before the games.

“I have already started my intensive training two weeks ago. I am currently training at the National Aquatics Center in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur,” she said.

Pandelela also singled out Nur Dhabitah Sabri and Loh Zhiayi as potential medalists for the games.

“Despite both divers being younger than me, there is no doubt that they can win the medals for the country,” she said.

In fact, she also considers them as her main contenders for the 10-metre individual platform event.

Pandelela has also been elected team leader for Malaysia’s 11-member diving team bound for Myanmar.

Apart from Pandelela, Nur Dhabitah and Loh, the other female divers selected are Leong Mun Yee, Cheong Jun Hoong and Wendy Ng Yee.

The male national divers are Ooi Tze Liang, Muhd Amsyar Azman, Chew Yi Wei, Danial Sabri and Muhd Nazreen Abdullah.




Link: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/23/pandelela-to-defend-her-title-at-sea-games/

NSC want MAU to include Noraseela, Hup Wei in SEA Games

Source: Bernama/Borneo Post

KUALA LUMPUR: The National Sports Council (NSC) has urged the Malaysian Athletics Union (MAU) to review their decision and include senior athletes Noraseela Mohd Khalid and Lee Hup Wei in the Myanmar SEA Games athletics squad.

NSC director-general Datuk Seri Zolkples Embong said Noraseela, the National women’s 400m hurdler and men’s high jump ace Hup Wei, should be given a chance in the athletics squad.

“Although they failed to qualify on merit, Noraseela and Hup Wei have a track record of achievements throughout the year. They have proven themselves in the past by winning medals for the country,” he told reporters, yesterday.

Zolkples said the MAU should consider the NSC’s views since the NSC has channeled funds to the MAU for the preparation of athletes.

He said Hup Wei should have been included in the SEA Games squad since he still holds the National High Jump record of 2.27m which was set in the China Open Athletics Championships in 2008.

“I am confident with Hup Wei’s capability and believe he can still contribute a medal and he is still not old compared to some other athletes,” he said.

Zolkples also questioned the MAU’s decision to list an inexperienced jumper as the country’s second choice to the Myanmar games.

“I was made to understand that the MAU had also listed athletes who did not participate in the Malaysian Open which ended on Sunday, in the list of athletes to Myanmar…there are also less known names in the list,” he said.

He also questioned MAU’s decision to omit Noraseela’s name although she can be a part of the 4x400m relay team and the fact that she had sacrificed her time and own money to undergo training.

Zolkples said he would meet the MAU to discuss the issue. 

Link: http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/10/23/nsc-want-mau-to-include-noraseela-hup-wei-in-sea-games/

NSC want MAU to include Noraseela, Hup Wei in SEA Games

Asia Cup Petanque Championships A Platform For Players To Tune Up For SEA Games - Coach

Source:  BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- The National petanque squad will be competing in the Asia Cup Petanque Championships scheduled in Bali, Indonesia from Oct 23-26.

National petanque head coach Zanilisa Mohamed said the championships would also act as a platform for national petanque players to tune up for the SEA Games in Myanmar from Dec 11 to 22.

The Asia Cup will also serve as a qualifying tournament for the 2014 Petanque World Cup in Tahiti.

"The championships will offer seven spots for Asian players to compete in the World Cup. For the Asia Cup we will be sending three men and three women from the elite squad and three more from the junior squad," he said.

Zanilisa said the Malaysian Petanque Federation has targetted only two of the 11 gold medals on offer in the SEA Games through Mohamad Nuzul Azwan Ahmad Temizi and Mohd Hafizuddin Md Daud from the men's individual and shooting events.

"Mohamad Nuzul Azwan won the bronze medal in the World Championships in Marseille, France last year and is the highest ranked player in Asia. Mohd Hafizuddin also put up a credible performance in the World Championships," he said.

He said for the SEA Games in Myanmar, the National squad would be made up of 10 men and 12 women players who would be competing in all the events contested.

Link: http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/sp/newssports.php?id=987051

Defending Champion Hup Wei Expected To Be Left Out Of Myanmar Sea Games Squad

Source:  BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Athletics Union (MAU) will have no choice but to drop defending high jump gold medallist Lee Hup Wei from the Myanmar SEA Games squad, based on his current form.

MAU President Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad said Hup Wei would have been included if he had finished among the top two finishers in the Malaysian Open Athletics Championships which ended at the University Malaya Sports Complex, here, Sunday.

"We will choose the top two athletes in the championships...they have all qualified but today they needed to show they were in their best form and maintain their performance to represent the country in the games.

"If based on merit he has qualified but based on today's performance he does not qualify. However, any athlete whom we feel has the potential to contribute a medal, will be included in the list," he said on the sidelines of the championships that ended, here, today.

In the championships which ended today, Malaysia won 13 gold, 19 silver and 19 bronze medals, ahead of Thailand who finished with seven gold, two silver and five bronze medals while Japan were third with four gold, one silver and one bronze medal.

Zainal Abidin was also concerned with the drop in the standard of athletics in the country since he had expected a number of athletes to equal or renew their personal best or smash the national record in their respective events, before heading to Myanmar.

"We will have a selection committee meeting tonight and probably announce the list of athletes for the SEA Games by tomorrow. Our target in Myanmar is seven gold medals," he said.

In today's action, Hup Wei who managed only a fourth place with a jump of 2.10m, apologized to the local fans for not qualifying for the SEA Games.

Meanwhile, 400m hurdler Noraseela Mohd Khalid said she was confident of delivering the gold medal in the women's 400m hurdles if given a chance to compete in the Myanmar SEA Games.

Noraseela, 34, who is still recovering from a heel injury said she would be able to perform better if she was allowed to continue training under coach Hennie Kriel from South Africa.

The hurdler who finished in fifth place today with a time of 61.54s, way off her personal best time of 56.02s, said she hoped to leave to South Africa and continue her training.



Link: http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/sp/newssports.php?id=986899

Dewa Ayu going for Gold

Source: Sindonews.com

Dewa Ayu Ari Parwitti / satlakprima.com

Having a dream to become policewomen or civil servants ( PNS ) , making a national fighter from Bali , Dewa Ayu Ari Parwitti is working hard weeks to get for a gold in the women's singles event in Myanmar SEA Games , which will take place in December.

For the sake of her mission, the 18 -year -old athlete who was born on the island of intensive training, after Pelatnas she was called into the first team and was selected for the SEA Games, Dewa Ayu into the first team SEA Games.

" I am grateful to go Pelatnas (traning camp) for XXVII SEA Games in Myanmar. By doing so, presenting opportunities for the gold medal Red and White opens wide. Because according to the information I received , the athlete can enter Policewomen and civil servants should be able to bring the good name of the nation and the state dipercaturan international sport , at least in the SEA Games , "said Dewa Ayu , as reported by the official website Satlak Prima , Monday ( 21/10 ) .

However, Dewa Ayu admitted that being a policewoman or a civil servant is not only the main objective . " Practicing enterprising in Pelatnas not want to go because Policewomen and a civil servant, but more important is the gold medal for the Indonesian contingent . All of that is a message from the parents when leaving go Pelatnas in Jakarta , " he explained .

Excel in martial arts martial arts branch , according to Dewa Ayu , not independent role of coaches and parents who always give support . Through their support , he could step into Jakarta and stayed in Padepokan Pencak Silat TMII . Dewa Ayu was willing to put off going to college after high school , for the sake of achievement for Indonesia at SEA Games 2013.

Link: http://sports.sindonews.com/read/2013/10/21/51/796472/demi-raih-emas-sea-games-dewa-ayu-tunda-masuk-pt?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Pencak Silat Sets New Rules

Source: Dumai Headlines

Head of International Referees confirmed the new rules are socialized in Padepokan Pencak Silat Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) in Jakarta and will be applied and used directly in the game in Myanmar 27th SEA Games in December 2013 with hope in the biennial multi-event to be more aggressively and thoroughly enjoyable." 

There are some new rules on the assessment of silat athletes during a match at the SEA Games. Through the new rules, an athlete is expected to have the tenacity and aspirations to attack. Unlike the old rules were implemented starting in 2004 , "explained by Rimzal in Jakarta , Friday (18/10). Rimzal continues that new regulations are drafted and implemented in 2013, it is already approved and sealed Silat Association International ( Persilat ) in 2012.

That way, all the movement in the game is evaluated and the result function in athletes who do matches. As well as the usual sweep techniques when attacking an athlete should not be countered with a sweep or returned to the attack. However, new techniques are just the opposite. Athletes who attacked through the sweep can be attacked by opponent's back. That way , no more athletes are using the sweep technique just to fool the referee. 

Likewise with assault and escape lane divider lines. In the old rules an athlete just stopped and is expected to carry out attacks in the middle of the game canvas. But now with the new rules, the athlete gets out of the direct line of instruction. When the two lines will exceed menndapat sanctions or reduced value.Likewise, when attacking , should not be on the back . It was none other than to avoid injury to the opponent .  

Through new regulations he said , an athlete will be challenged to perform an attack that sportsmanship is not just shelter under the referee to trick so not subject to reproof or punishment .The new regulations have started trying as Pre SEA Games in Myanmar or field trials last month . As a result, all participants providing support and wants the new rules applied during the match XXVII SEA Games held in Myanmar. 

Through considerations that ultimately Persilat provide socialization of new regulations in Padepokan Silat TMII Jakarta attended by participants from Indonesia , Philippines , Brunei Darussalam and Thailand .Previous 're Myanmar and Vietnam are getting adoption of new regulations when athletes tested in Bandung and Bogor . By doing so , pengetrapan new rules in the game in Myanmar XXVII SEA Games this December is no longer challenged . Since it was approved Persilat existing members in the ASEAN region .

Link: http://www.dumaiheadlines.com/2013/10/21/pencak-silat-sosialisasikan-aturan-baru/