IT has been a rumble in the jungle experience for national pencaksilat exponents for the upcoming KL2017 Southeast Asian Games.
In the last phase of training, the National Silat Federation (PESAKA) had packed off the athletes to the outskirts of Vietnam from 19 June-9 July for a team building program.
And on their return they were assigned to train in the deep jungles of Cameron Highlands, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, for five days.
As far as three-time world champion Mohd Al Jufferi Jamariis concerned, it was a well worth foray training in the jungle in his quest to win the SEA Games gold medal for the third time in the Class E (65-70kg) event when the competition commences on August 24-29 at KLCC Hall 2.
“Living in the jungle was a different experience. It was very quiet and the fresh air was welcoming unlike living and training in the city. Our routine was nothing but training as there were no distractions or entertainments.
“We had plenty of time to work on our techniques, tactical plans and our sparring sessions,” said Jufferi, who made history by being the first silat exponent to be honoured as the Sportsman of the Year at the 2015 National Sports Awards.
“Training away from home during theHari Raya Festival was a sacrifice. The training programmer was aim at preparing athletes, both mentally and physically, for the Games. There are no short cuts.
“For example, being in the 65-70kg category, I have to control my diet and maintain my weight. If I had taken a week off during the festive season, I would have definitely put on weight, said the 25-year-old who hails from Pahang.
PESAKA has set a target of eight gold medals, four silvers and six bronze medals for the 29th edition of the biennial games. – BY ALVIN OH
