The Lao Snooker Federation is concerned about delays in preparation of the venue to be used to host the billiards and snooker events during the SEA Games next month.
The federation’s Vice President, Mr Pasithxay Luangkhod, said yesterday the delays mean the federation’s players may not be able to train at the venue before the games begin.
“We want them to be able to practise at the competition venue so they can become familiar with the arena and the conditions before the real competition starts,” he said.
He said the necessary equipment for the snooker event will be installed at the venue at Don Chan Palace from December 1-7. The draw for the event will take place on December 9 and the competition kicks off on December 10.
“Practice and warm-up tables will be installed from December 1-4, so our athletes will be able to train on them but it is a very short time frame before the games begin,” Mr Pasithxay said.
He also expressed concern any unforeseen delays could disrupt the entire competition before it even begins.
“We are worried because all other 25 sporting federations have fully equipped venues where their athletes can train. However, we will continue to do our best and we know our players will try their hardest for their country at the games,” he said.
The federation has selected a squad of 16 to compete at the games, including three women. Some members of the team are currently competing in the Indoor Games in Vietnam .
“Some of our players participated in a recent Division 2 snooker event in Thailand and one of them finished second, only losing to a Thai opponent 7-9 in the final,” Mr Pasithxay said.
The federation reported that nine countries will compete in the snooker, billiards, pool and carom events at the SEA Games. No players from Cambodia and Timor Leste have entered the events.
“We hope to get medals of any colour at the games and promise to do our best for the Lao people as they host the games,” he said.
By Souknilundon Southivongnorath
November 4, 2009
Vientiane Times
