DESPITE the Covid storm taking the wind out of the Malaysia Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) sails, the national body remain optimistic that they are still on course for the Vietnam Sea Games later this year.
Last week, three members of the national squad, including Tun Ameerul Hakim Tun Hasnul Azam tested positive for Covid-19
MTBC secretary general Maradona Chok said the national body have taken precautionary measures to ensure their plans are not disrupted.
"Our president, Datuk Dr P.S. Nathan is closely following our athletes and coaches, and advising everyone at this time.
"So far the team are okay and under quarantine until their second test, expected to be on May 16.
"Hakim is in high spirits despite having fever on and off. He is being monitored at Universiti Hospital.
"In Casa (National Sports Institute) we have nine athletes.
"The national youth squad have broken camp and returned home until school reopens in June.
"The national youth squad were not in close contact with those who tested positive, as they trained late in the afternoon.
"We are preparing for the Sea Games and we hope that we will have a couple of tournaments to go to... Our coaches are preparing the team and working closely with the psychologist in getting their mindset ready for the Sea Games," said Maradona.
The national team admitted that training was disrupted prematurely by the Covid infections, but they will do whatever necessary to keep things going.
"So far, the SOP for the team has been very strict but still we got it... this shows everyone really needs to tighten up to fight this pandemic.
"We cannot let our guard down," Maradona added.
It is learnt that the other two infected persons are a world championships gold medal winner and a national coach.