RP fielding big contingent in Asean U Games

After getting postponed last year due to budgetary constraints, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) holds the 11th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) University Games from Jan. 19 to 24 at different venues in Metro Manila.

Jose Capistrano Jr., secretary-general of the organizing committee, said the RP delegation has a strong chance of figuring on top since it will field about 200 athletes although he still sees Thailand as the team to beat.

"We’re fielding in 200 athletes in all eight events and this gives us a strong chance of faring well against Thailand, which dominated the last edition in 1999," said Capistrano in yesterday’s weekly PSA Forum, sponsored by Afga Films and Red Bull at the Holiday Inn.

Aside from the host country and Thailand which is expected to send 152 athletes, Malaysia (139), Singapore (87), Brunei (57), Indonesia (41) and Cambodia (25) have confirmed their participation. Laos might not participate while Vietnam has yet to confirm its participation.

Capistrano said the UAAP is coordinating with Tourism Secretary Dick Gordon and the Philippine Sports Commission the organization and funding of this biennial meet.

Far Eastern University will represent the country in basketball, one of the eight sports available, after four-peat champion La Salle begged off due to commitments to collegiate league NCRAA and the Philippine Basketball League. — Joey Villar