BEST OF THE BEST: Sikie (third left) presents the Bintulu Regatta 2012 ‘King of the River’ trophy to James as Mohidin (second left) and others look on.
BINTULU: ASF Puteri Burung Nuri owned by Abok Sekalai Foundation (ASF) dominated the last day of the Bintulu Regatta 2012 and was crowned as ‘Regatta King’ in the ‘Bidar’ men’s 30 paddlers’ category of the TYT Cup yesterday.
Second place went to Selendang Sakti owned by Hadri Nahrawi while Pekaka Sakti, also owned by ASF, in third.
ASF team manager James Stephen when met at the sideline after receiving the trophy said his team have been well-prepared to compete in the Bintulu Regatta 2012.
“We have been training for almost eight months. Our target is to win as many titles as we can, as a preparation for the coming Sarawak regatta,” he revealed.
With eight boats and 120 paddlers, ASF took part in all the events contested at the Bintulu Regatta.
“There is much improvement in this year’s regatta, one of the biggest and the best ever,” said James who now aims for the ‘King of the Sarawak River’ title at the Sarawak Regatta 2012, expected to be held in September.
He said they have been competing regularly in the last five editions of the Sarawak Regatta and had won several categories except for the coveted “King of the Sarawak River” crown.
“We are aiming for the “King of the Sarawak River” title and hope we can make it happen this year,” he added.
James also pointed out that with their active participation in the various regattas state-wide, ASF are aiming at promoting and enhancing local paddlers to reach higher standard in the sport.
“We want to encourage the locals to participate and improve in terms of paddling techniques,” he said.
On hand to presents the
prizes to the winners was Assistant Minister for Local Government Datuk John Sikie Tayai.
Also present was Bintulu Development Authority general manager Datu Mohidin Ishak.