Indonesian organizer confirms 40 sports vied in 2018 Asiad

By APD writer Maverick

**JAKARTA, Oct. 25 (APD) ** – Indonesia 2018 Asian Games Organizing Committee (INASGOC) confirmed here on Wednesday that final number of sports contended in 2018 Asiad was 40, covering 462 branches of sports.

The conformation was conveyed by INASGOC Chairman Erick Thohir after his meeting with Vice President Jusuf Kalla who heads the INASGOC steering committee in the latter office.

Erick said that options to add number of sport branches under those 40 sports contended in Asiad were still possible, can be discussed later with INASGOC and Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI).

“I would ask the INASGOC and KOI to accommodate further discussions on branches of sports which are yet to be identified or less familiar in Indonesia. Further discussion (regarding it) is still possible,” he added.

The host country Indonesia previously has sent letter President of Asian Olympic Committee (OCA)Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabahrelated to the nation’s request for addition of 11 sport branches in 3 sports consisted of archery, rock climbing and taekwondo.

Indonesia is now intensifying several projects to accommodate the upcoming 2018 Asiad slated for August 18 to Sept 2 next year in Jakarta and South Sumatra capital of Palembang.

Countdown to mark one year towards the event was inaugurated by President Joko Widodo in August.

Indonesia has set target to be among 8 best teams in Asiad themed “Energy of Asia” next year.

Over 11,000 from 45 Asian countries and regions were expected to take part in the sports event held once every four years.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)