TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The West Java contingent came out the overall champion in the 2016 National Games (PON) amidst protests conveyed by other contingents for unfair decisions. By Wednesday, September 28, 2016, West Java has bagged 210 gold medals, 147 silver medals, and 141 bronze medals.
"Thank God we have achieved our target as the overall champion, and it’s likely that we could exceed the target in the number of gold medals," West Java governor Ahmad "Aher"Heryawan told journalists in Bandung on Wednesday, September 28, 2016.
Earlier, athletes participating in judo, wrestling, karate, drum band and synchronized swimming competitions conveyed protests to the organizing committee. Some contingents even decided to walk out of the games.
Aher viewed that West Java's achievement in the National Games would be unbeatable. The closest competitors, East Java and Jakarta, have bagged 126 and 125 gold medals, respectively.
According to Aher, the achievement was attained by hard work and strong confidence shown by West Java athletes.
"There will be bonuses for athletes who won gold medals. They will continue to work hard, and we will take care of their future," he added.
AMINUDIN A.S.
