FIPBI 2022 Athletes Enjoy Iconic Tourism in Yogyakarta

VIVA – The FOX'S Indonesia Para Badminton International or FIPBI 2022 Tournament has ended. Badminton athletes from 10 countries along with referees and officials from the Badminton World Federation (BWF) do a city tour of some tourist attractions in Yogyakarta on Sunday, August 28, 2022.

As many as 69 badminton athletes took the time to tour the Prambanan Temple complex, and have lunch at Ramayana Resto to look for souvenirs in the Malioboro area.

When visiting Prambanan Temple, athletes from various countries were fascinated by the beauty of the temple. For approximately two hours, these athletes explored the corners of Prambanan Temple.

After leaving Prambanan Temple, the athletes were invited to have lunch at the Ramayana Resto which is still located in the same area.

They enjoy a variety of menus at restaurants with a Central Javanese nuance that serve these traditional menus, such as fried noodles, Soto, Tahu Bacem, Tempe mendoan, and others.

After that, all the athletes continued their journey to another iconic place in Yogyakarta, namely Malioboro to hunt for souvenirs. Most of them buy clothes, bags, key chains, to various types of Bakpia (Yogyakarta special food).

One of the athletes from Australia, Grant Manzoney participated in the tournament, and following a series of city tour became a precious moment for him. On his first visit to Indonesia, Manzoney admitted that he was very impressed with the hospitality of the people and the natural beauty of Indonesia.

"FOX'S Indonesia Para-Badminton International 2022 is a good tournament, probably the best among the tournaments I have participated in. I enjoyed my week in Yogyakarta. I met very friendly people, and besides that, I also got pretty good results in this tournament," Manzoney said.

"On my career in badminton, indeed I have visited many cities in the world. However, I think this tournament is an interesting experience, I have learned many new things, especially in terms of culture like the one behind me (Prambanan temple)," Manzoney added.

Meanwhile, the athlete from Peru, Hector Jesus Salva Tunque admitted that he was amazed by the Prambanan Temple. Hector was seen recording and photographing the corners of this Prambanan Temple.

"This is a very beautiful temple. Besides photos and videos, I also received an explanation that made me quite curious about Indonesian culture and culture," Hector said.

"I hope to be able to play again or even vacation in Indonesia. I will go to Solo to practice badminton with Indonesian athletes," Hector added.

Meanwhile, the Badminton Manager of the World Badminton Federation (BWF) Syahmi Sabron said that the implementation of FOX'S Indonesia Para Badminton International 2022 went well and smoothly, even above the standards set by BWF.

Syahmi appreciated the organizers who carried out the concept of sport tourism by holding a city tour for athletes because the series is quite important. So, athletes can enjoy quality time after the tournament and bring interesting experiences to their respective countries.

"Yes, the implementation of FOX'S Indonesia Para Badminton International 2022 exceeds the standards we recommend. This tournament can be used as an example for the implementation of other badminton tournaments. For me, Indonesia is like a home for badminton," Syahmi remarked.

"With the city tour, I think it's also very good for athletes to know about iconic places in Yogyakarta. Athletes don't just come to compete but can feel a different atmosphere in the places they visit. Thank you to the organizers and sponsors," Syahmi added.

As known, FOX'S Indonesia Para Badminton International 2022 was held from August 23 to August 27, 2022, at the Among Rogo Sports Center, Yogyakarta Special Region. Indonesia managed to present 17 titles from 18 categories that were competed.