BIRMINGHAM – The availability of technology has come in handy to serve Malaysian gymnasts competing in the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
The Malaysian gymnasts were deprived of the presence of two Russian coaches in Birmingham as they were barred from entering the United Kingdom.
However, the availability of ‘Zoom’ interactive technology has enabled the Russian duo to keep in touch with the national rhythmic gymnastics camp throughout the Games.
Malaysian Gymnastics Federation (MGF) honorary secretary Afrita Ariany Nasril said they had no choice but to make do with online training just to ensure fellow gymnasts won’t lose the interaction with their coaches, who are in Malaysia, during this crucial time.
“We try to adapt to the situation by giving support to our gymnasts and ensure they communicate with their coaches through ‘Zoom’ meeting while I and local coach Lim Win Chean will also help the gymnasts here.
“There was no objection from the organiser so far on us getting the Russian coaches to give their instructions online from Malaysia, they thoroughly understand the situation,” she told Bernama.
Previously, the media had reported that the two Russian gymnastics coaches for the Games may have run into a visa snag.
Without revealing the names of the two coaches, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu said both may be affected by entry restrictions imposed by the UK government on Russian citizens following the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Afrita said the physical and online training will be done concurrently for at least five hours daily as part of their preparations ahead of the event at the Arena Birmingham.
In the meantime, the former national gymnast said they have managed to sweep the unfortunate incident under the carpet and will focus on the mission of achieving the target of one gold in this Games instead.
“Of course, there will be some difficulties but like I said we are not focusing on the problem but we are trying to find a solution so as to not disturb the physical and mental of our athletes,” she added.
Three national gymnasts – Koi Sie Yan, Ng Joe Ee and Izzah Amzan – will see action here on Aug 4. – Bernama, August 2, 2022
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