Training centre will help Thai archers and region, says Fita chief
[ARCHERY] International Archery Federation (Fita) president Ugur Erdener believes the recent launch of a Fita Accredited Partner Training Centre in Thailand will benefit local archers immensely.
In an exclusive interview with The Nation, the world archery chief said the training centre would not only improve the skills of local archers but also the popularity of the sport in the region. It is the second such establishment in the world, following the one set up in Egypt last year. "The project was initiated in line with the Fita's development scheme of making archery known all over the world," Erdener said. "The money for construction and running the site did not come from Fita alone, but also from the Olympic Solidarity, the National Olympic Committees and the archery associations. "Not only Thais but also archers from neighbouring countries Laos, Vietnam and Malaysia can make use of the training centre here. They can exchange knowledge and ideas with one another. It will help them when they take part in major competitions, such as the Grand Prix and the Asian Games," he said. "Fita will hire experienced coaches and instructors to work in the centre and teach tactics and techniques to archers who want to qualify for the Olympic Games. "The NAAT [National Archery Association of Thailand] will get income by initiating seminars for archers who want to sharpen their skills and also from children who want to learn the sport. The seminars or instruction courses can last a few days or a week. "The centre is just next door to the NAAT office in the Hua Mark Sports Complex. It's one of the most suitable locations, with excellent surroundings," he said. Erdener appealed to the Thai government to support the centre. "To run a training centre is not an easy job. Steady financial support is needed and I hope the Thai government will lend a helping hand. The media's role is very important and I hope it will make such a centre known to the public." NAAT president Sanguan Kosawinta said Bt300,000 was set aside for the construction of the centre, which was officially opened last Friday. Internet-linked computers, telephones and fax machines will soon be established inside the facility. Teerapot Taweewanabul The Nation
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