TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian speed climber Veddriq Leonardo and lifter Rizki Juniansyah expressed their excitement to join the Paris 2024 Olympics Parade, a first for both gold medalists.

Veddriq said he was elated to join the parade, which shows how Indonesian athletes are appreciated for their achievements. He also said the momentum is a chance to greet the public directly.

"I never imagined that I would be given the opportunity for a special parade. Of course, I am happy, and so are the other athletes who will compete in the Paris 2024 Olympics Games," he said at the Ministry of Youth and Sports building in Jakarta on August 15.

"It is an honor for fellow athletes to receive extraordinary recognition, and it also provides an opportunity to greet the Indonesian people who have provided prayers and support during the Olympic Games," the climber from Pontianak said.

Like Veddriq, Rizki is happy to be part of the parade of athletes returning from the 2024 Paris Olympics. While he admits to being exhausted, he says that an athlete must welcome the appreciation of the country for his achievements.

"I am very happy. Tired but happy. Hopefully we can have a peaceful rest after this event. But as athletes we really appreciate the appreciation of the country. This is a matter of pride and joy in itself," said the 21-year-old lifter.

The parade of medal-winning athletes from the Paris 2024 Olympics Games set off from the Ministry of Sports office at around 07:38. The bus carrying the group of athletes drove to Simpang Susun Semanggi, then to the Hotel Indonesia (HI) roundabout and arrived at the State Palace almost an hour later at 08:26.

Upon arrival at the State Palace, the medalists met with President Joko Widodo to receive bonuses for their achievements. As gold medalists, Vedriq and Rizki received Rp6 billion each, while bronze medalist Gregoria Mariska Tunjung received Rp1.65 billion.

Not only the medalists, but also the coaches were rewarded. Gold medal winning coaches will receive a bonus of Rp2.75 billion and bronze medal winning coaches will receive Rp675 million. Meanwhile, athletes and coaches who do not win medals will receive a bonus of Rp250 million each.

TEMPO.CO

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