In a momentous event for martial arts enthusiasts and sports fans alike, Pencak Silat will be showcased in a captivating exhibition at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This demonstration, scheduled for July 27-28, marks a significant milestone in the history of this traditional Southeast Asian sport, bringing it into the global spotlight.
Two exceptional silat athletes from Bandung Regency, Indonesia, Zaen Nurdin and Oki Oktavian, have earned a coveted spot in this prestigious exhibition. After a rigorous selection process, they qualified in the Men’s Artistic Doubles category. Nurdin and Oktavian are among four lucky Pencak Silat athletes from West Java province to represent Indonesia at the event. “There are 8 national pencak silat athletes who have qualified for the 2024 Olympic Exhibition, 4 from West Java and 2 of them are the best sons of Bandung Regency,” he admitted.
Eight gold-medalist athletes, male and female, will demonstrate the sparring (tanding) and fighting skit (ganda) artistic styles to show the powerful and beautiful essence of our beloved Pencak Silat martial arts. This exhibition is important as a part of the stepping-stone of Pencak Silat Road to the Olympics 2036. Mr. Prabowo Subianto, President of PERSILAT, will also be present to welcome all National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to witness the exhibition of Pencak Silat.
The participation of Zaen Nurdin and Oki Oktavian from Bandung is particularly significant as it underscores the talent and dedication that exists within the ranks of Pencak Silat practitioners. It also serves as an inspiration to young athletes all over the world, demonstrating that dedication and respect for one’s culture can pave the way to global recognition.
As the dates for the exhibition draw near, anticipation is building. Fans of martial arts and cultural exhibitions are keen to see how Pencak Silat will capture attention, even as the main Olympic events unfold across other venues in Paris. This showcase at the Indonesian Embassy, distinct from the official Olympic arenas, holds great significance. With sufficient exposure, this event could mark a crucial advancement towards including Pencak Silat as a competitive discipline in future Olympic Games, fulfilling a long-held aspiration of its practitioners and supporters.
For now, all eyes will be on Paris in July 2024, as Pencak Silat steps into the limelight, promising a display of grace, skill, and cultural richness that will captivate the world.
Your support and prayers for the success of this exhibition in Paris are highly appreciated.
Source: Ketik.co.id | Media Kolaborasi Indonesia
This post has been updated July 28th – 5pm EST