Fadlan And Azzahra Targeted To Sharpen National Record At Tokyo Olympics

Swimming athletes Fadlan and Azzahra (Photo: Special)

JAKARTA - Two Indonesian swimmers, Aflah Fadlan Prawira and Azzahra Permatahani are increasingly challenging preparations ahead of their inaugural appearance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Both are targeted to sharpen the national record in their respective names when performing at the Tokyo Aquatics Center, Saturday, July 24.

Fadlan, who appeared earlier, will play in the preliminary round of the men's 400 m freestyle at 19:44 Tokyo time or 17:44 WIB. Then, Azzahra took part in the preliminary round for the 400 meters women's individual medley at 20.05 Tokyo time or 18.05 WIB.

"Our preparations have been carried out, routine exercises also continue to be carried out at the venue. Health continues to be maintained. Please pray for us to be able to do the best," said Fadlan in a statement received by VOI, Saturday, July 24.

Azzahra also expressed the desire to display maximum results. The 19-year-old swimmer said competing at a world level like the Olympics was a special experience.

"We have made preparations long ago. It is an honor to be able to compete against world swimmers. Pray that we can sharpen the national record (record)," added Azzahra.

Indonesian Swimming Coach Donny B Utomo said the physical condition of Aflah Fadlan and Azzahra was quite excellent. Now, he said, it's just a matter of mental strengthening and strategy setting.

Considering that the competition is a world-class swimmer and both of them have just made their first appearance at the Olympics, said Donny B Utomo, they are only targeted to sharpen the national record.

"We are targeting them to sharpen the record time of the National Record in this first appearance," he said.

Fadlan held the men's 400 M Freestyle record with a time of 3 minutes 52.18 seconds. Meanwhile, Azzahra has the women's individual medley record for 400M with a time of 4 minutes 48.51 seconds.

"Fadlan and Azzahra are expected to be able to improve their best time, although preparations are hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is hoped that the aura of the Olympics will increase their motivation," said the Head of the Indonesian Swimming National Team, Harlin Rahardjo, who is also the Deputy Chairperson of PB PRSI.

Especially for Fadlan, said Donny B Utomo, he will again perform at the Men's Freestyle Number 1,500 M at the same place on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 19:42 Tokyo time or 17:42 WIB.