The Cambodian badminton team flew into Kuala Lumpur on Aug 7 – well ahead of other teams from other contingents started arriving for the 29th Kuala Lumpur Sea Games.
The reason for the early arrival – to plot their badminton destiny in the biennial games at Destiny Badminton Academy in Klang – a two week training stint before the badminton competition gets underway at the Axiata Arena, KL Sports City in Bukit Jalil.
The Cambodians are coached by Malaysian K. Kogilavanan, a former Selangor player. He is assisted by DBA coaches Aravind, a Malaysian and Budi of Indonesia during the stint at the Academy.
Cambodia are not sending a women’s team but will be represented by their national champion Ker Pichhoravy in the women’s individual events. She will also play in the mixed doubles with partner Leng Sopheaktra.
The men’s challenge will be led by their three-time national champion Tep Chanmara who will also play in the men’s doubles with Yan Kosak. The second singles is Cheng Phorom.
Cambodia face top seeds Indonesia in the quarter-finals in the men’s team event but Kogilavanan sings a tune of confidence.
“We do not fear the mighty Indonesians…nothing is impossible. If we pull off a surprise, the bronze is ours,” said Kogilavanan.
The badminton events get underway on Aug 22. – By Rizal Abdullah
The Cambodian Team
Men
Tep Chanmara
Yan Kosak
Teav Yongvanniak
Leng Sopheaktra
Cheng Phorom
Women
Ker Pichharavy
