ONE FOR THE ALBUM: Triathlon clinic participants poses for a photo call at the end of the event organised by Satria and the MSNS. Satria president Datuk Azman Samaon is seen front row, second from right.
KUCHING: Sarawak is aiming to become the first state to host the Sukma triathlon event when it hosts the prestigious games in 2016.
Sarawak Triathlon Association (Satria) president Datuk Azman Samaon revealed that the association is hoping for the Triathlon Association of Malaysia (TRIAM) to look seriously into the matter and will work closely to make it a reality.
“We are working very hard for Sarawak to be given the honour to host the inaugural Sukma triathlon event here in 2016. This sport is fast gaining popularity here in the country. In Sarawak, triathlon is very popular in Miri,” Azman told The Borneo Post.
He continued that triathlon is a unique multi-staged sport cum race that tests the human body durability to the limit. Racers must first start the race by swimming a required distance then cycle for another distance before running to the finish line.
Satria’s enthusiasm to see Sarawak emerge the inaugural host of the games during Sukma came when the sports is now contested in the Olympics and SEA Games. National female triathlon athlete Kimberley Yap won the gold medal twice during the SEA Games in Manila (2005) and Khorat (2007).
Yap is a Sarawakian and her achievements in the sport serves as an inspiration for the association.
“She is currently the most successful triathlon athlete from the state. Having only been introduced to the Olympics in Sydney (2000), we do realise that this sport is still relatively new and we want to produce more national athletes from Sarawak,” commented Azman.
In a related development, Satria have successfully conducted a triathlon clinic yesterday at a hotel here. The clinic was part of a series conducted by the association with the co-operation of the Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS).
Experienced triathlon coach Eugene Lee from Singapore was invited to conduct the course. Lee has 12-years of coaching experience under his belt.
“There is still more room for the development of the sport here in Sarawak. Nevertheless the participants are very enthusiastic during the lessons today and I am grateful for that,” said Lee.
Participants of the clinic were given lectures and practical training lessons. They were also given a few tips and knowledge in training for triathlons competitions.