Approaching The Tokyo Paralympics, Indonesian Athletes' PCR Test Results Are Negative

Photo: Antara

JAKARTA - In order to finalize preparations before the opening of the world's largest disabled sporting event starting on August 24, Indonesian athletes for the Tokyo Paralympics began to practice every day.

Chairman of the Indonesian National Paralympic Committee (NPC) Senny Marbun said before leaving for training, all athletes and officials must first follow the health protocols implemented by the organizing committee, one of which is the obligation to undergo a PCR test every day.

“Everyone has to take the PCR test every day because it is a requirement set here. To this day, all PCR tests of the Indonesian contingent have shown negative results," said Senny Marbun quoting Antara, Sunday, August 22.

Senny said he was happy with the complete facilities provided by the host in supporting all Para athletes while in Tokyo.

"Usually, after the PCR, all athletes go to training as well by following strict procedures," Senny added.

Unlike the Olympics, the Tokyo Paralympics require slightly different facilities and infrastructure considering that there are a number of athletes who use wheelchairs or other walking aids.

Appreciation is not only conveyed to the host. The Indonesian NPC was also grateful that the Indonesian contingent also received a lot of support from the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo while in Sakura Country. Senny said that every day there were representatives of the Indonesian Embassy who always helped the Indonesian contingent.

The support from the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo has been felt since the arrival of the first Indonesian team in Tokyo. Upon arrival at the airport, the contingent was immediately greeted by the Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Japan, Tri Purnajaya, and his staff.

“The presence of Indonesian Embassy staff here really helps us in many ways. They are present at the athlete's guesthouse every day to accompany the contingent. Because they can also speak Japanese, they also often become translators for us,” said Senny.

Most of the Indonesian athletes from several sports have been in Tokyo to perform at the Paralympics which will take place from 24 August-5 September.

Only the para-shooters have yet to arrive in Tokyo. Two para-shooting athletes, namely Hanik Puji Astuti and Bolo Triyanto, and the new official will leave for Japan on Monday, August 23.