The fastest runner in Southeast Asia gets even faster
Mon, Dec 14, 2009
The Jakarta Post/Asia News Network
Not only did he triumphantly defend his gold in the prestigious men’s 100-m dash at the Main Stadium of the National Sports Complex in Vientiane on Saturday, Suryo Agung Wibowo also broke his 2007 SEA Games record and the 20-year-old national record of Mardi Lestari.
The 26-year-old Suryo Agung Wibowo, who timed 10.25 seconds at the Thailand SEA Games two years ago to be dubbed the fastest man in Southeast Asia, surpassed with a new record of 10.17, which also broke a 1989 national record belongs to the country’s track-and-field legend Mardi Lestari.
“Alhamdullilah, this is trully a bless from God that I can break two records all at once,” said Suryo right after his victory on Saturday.
“With all the minim preparation the past year, I was previously only set to time 10.20 seconds. I have to admit that this race caused me more anxiety than the race two year ago,” said Suryo, who changed his outfit to a T-shirt with “I got gold” written on it.
“I am grateful for the prayers of my most loved ones in Indonesia,” said Suryo, who in the 2007 SEA Games also dominated the 200-m dash with 20.76 seconds in record.
Meanwhile, 20-year-old Fadlin, who also participated in the men’s 100-m dash, snatched the bronze medal in his maiden SEA Games appearance.
“I was only targeted for a gold in the 4x100-m relay, while in the 100-m dash I was only set for improving my own best record,” said Fadlin.
The silver medal went to W. Sondee of Thailand, who recorded 10.30 seconds.
