Antonio (centre) talking to the media at Miri Indoor Stadium yesterday.
MIRI: The first medal to be awarded in the 18th Sukma (Malaysia Games) could come in Miri as karate events kicked off at the Miri Indoor Stadium from 9am today (July 19).
Five gold medals will be on offer in individual kata (men and women), and kumite (men below 55kg; men above 84kg; women below 45kg).
In a press conference held at the stadium yesterday, Miri Resident Antonio Kahti Galis disclosed that all 14 states plus Brunei will be competing in the karate events.
The three-day Sukma karate competition will end on Thursday (July 21).
Miri will also host two other sports with sepak takraw taking place from July 23-25 and sailing from July 25-30.
Except for Brunei in sepak takraw and Kelantan in sailing, 13 teams will vie for honours in both sports.
Meanwhile, Antonio also encouraged Mirians to go all out to watch the games and especially to cheer Sarawak athletes.
“Entrance fee to all venues is free. Sepak takraw and karate would be held at the indoor stadium while sailing would be at the Marina Bay,” he said.