The Selangor Silambam team is nearing full preparation and eagerly awaits the opportunity to compete for five gold medals at the upcoming 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Sarawak next month. Head coach V. Uthaya Kumar expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to secure gold, highlighting the presence of experienced athletes who will spearhead Selangor’s challenge in this sport, making its debut at the biennial Games.
“Our training has entered an intensive phase, with athletes undergoing five training sessions a week. For the last three weeks, we will be pushing hard,” Uthaya Kumar told Bernama during a team training session today.
“In terms of preparation, we are 95 percent ready; the remaining 5 percent is just waiting for the final moments before showcasing our performance to bring glory to Selangor,” he added.
The Selangor team will compete in the events of Thanithirama, Kuthu Varisai, Poruthal (armed combat), and both rhythmic performances with and without weapons.
Uthaya Kumar identified Sarawak as a strong competitor that could challenge his team’s chances of winning medals in the competition. He noted that after eight months of training together, he is confident that his athletes can compete against any team but also reminded them not to underestimate their opponents when they are on the field.
He hopes that the squad will deliver their best performances and fight for the five gold medals on offer, helping to achieve the overall target of winning 61 gold medals. Earlier, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh announced that five additional sports, including Silambam, will be contested at this year’s SUKMA following agreements made during the SUKMA High Committee meeting.
Sources: Bernama
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