Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan and his staff, symbolically released the departure of the Jakarta contingent which will compete at the 16th National Paralympic Week (Peparnas), at PPOP Ragunan GOR. They will go to Papua and start competing from November 2 to 15.

I want to say how much we appreciate these athletes

To all contingent participants, the Governor stated that paralympic athletes are an example of a person who is able to work hard in the face of all limitations and challenges. The spirit to practice is conducted regularly thus they are capable of representing Jakarta in Papua later.

"I want to say how much we appreciate these athletes. Hopefully, it can be an inspiration that with limitations, they have to work extra hard compared to those without special needs," he expressed, as quoted by Jakarta PPID's press release, Friday (10/29).

He hoped that they could give the best results. It was only not about the number of medal winners, but the value and wisdom contained in the Peparnas competition.

"Our target there is to build brotherhood, bonds of togetherness, and to be present as an example for the Indonesian nation, as a person who is able to work hard, is able to overcome all kinds of feelings of laziness, and is reluctant to move up. I hope for that," he added.

As for the information, there were around 290 contingents that would compete in the 2021 Peparnas. They consisted of 197 athletes, 53 coaches, and 40 officials. Those are spread across 10 sports, consisting of Badminton, Chess, Wheelchair Tennis, Judo for the Blind, Boccia, Athletics, Shooting, Archery, Swimming, and Table Tennis.

Then the target set for them is to enter the top 10 of the overall medal list. Moreover, Jakarta was ranked 11th in 2016 Peparnas, West Java. That is why, Jakarta is expected to make better results in the 16th Peparnas this year.