KUDUS — The 2026 MilkLife Archery Challenge Junior National Championship returns to Kudus. The talent scouting event will be held at the Supersoccer Arena (SSA) in Kudus Regency, Central Java, from July 22-29, 2026.
This national-scale archery championship serves as a platform to support and cultivate young talent. Now in its second year, the event is expected to be larger than the previous edition, with approximately 1,000 athletes participating from across Indonesia.
Supersoccer Arena Kudus PIC, Vera Eka Wardani, stated that the Junior National Championship is a collaboration between the Indonesian Archery Association (PB Perpani) and the Djarum Foundation’s Sports Development program to nurture young athletes. For the second consecutive time, Kudus serves as the host for this record-breaking junior archery championship.
"Registration is open from May 15 to July 10 online. However, if the quota is reached before the deadline, registration will close early," Vera said on Wednesday (June 3, 2026).
Vera anticipates higher participation this year compared to last year, which featured 876 athletes from 28 provinces. The 2026 Junior Championship is projected to draw 1,000 athletes, with a maximum capacity of 1,200.
With top-tier, international-standard facilities, the championship will mirror the format of world-class archery events. The SSA venue is considered highly representative and is expected to support the development and performance improvement of young Indonesian athletes.
Organizers will also implement an alternate final format, featuring head-to-head matches broadcast on a large screen for live spectator viewing.
Vera noted that this professional competition experience is a major draw for athletes from various provinces, allowing them to experience the atmosphere of a world-class tournament.
"The high level of enthusiasm is due to the venue, which meets international standards and is supported by complete facilities," she explained.
Meanwhile, Abdul Razak, event committee chair and Deputy Chairman II for Development and Achievement at PB Perpani, stated that the Junior National Championship serves not only as a competition but as a vital part of early-age athlete development.
The 2026 Junior National Championship will feature four age categories: U-10, U-13, U-15, and U-18. Through this tiered competition, he hopes to cultivate young athletes who can excel nationally and represent Indonesia in international events.
"We are seeing higher enthusiasm from the participants. Having become familiar with the field and the competition format last year, they now have a clearer understanding and can prepare themselves more effectively," said Razak.
Central Java Contingent Preparations
Meanwhile, the Central Java contingent is intensifying preparations for the 2026 National Junior Archery Championship. Rio Riswandha, coach for the Central Java B team, stated that the squad will soon conduct a three-stage selection process to identify top-tier athletes.
"Last year, Central Java B sent approximately 40 athletes. This year, we are sending 32 athletes who have passed a rigorous selection process," Rio said.
Before competing, athletes will undergo a two-month training center focused on building mental fortitude, physical condition, and endurance. The training will also incorporate specialized technical instruction to boost performance.
"We remain focused on winning gold, but the primary goal is for the athletes to perform at their best and achieve high scores. Ultimately, the commitment to training is what matters most," he emphasized.
Registration for the 2026 National Junior Archery Championship remains open until July 10, 2026. Organizers hope that more junior athletes from Kudus and surrounding areas will eventually represent Indonesia on the international stage. (HYM/MKK)