Nothing is ever truly certain in multi-event coverage . Predictions can be wrong, plans can be ruined, and news often comes from unexpected directions.
That's what happened again at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, when the fight for Indonesia's first gold medal actually presented a small drama that showed how sports journalism is not just about writing match results, but also reading the wind, controlling instincts, and racing against the moment.
Since the day before, a number of sports had been mapped as having the opportunity to contribute the first gold medal for the Red and White Contingent.
Downhill cycling is a strong contender due to the early start of the final, while kayaking, taekwondo, and badminton are also on the radar
But on days like these, experience teaches that beliefs don't always align with reality
The coverage team rushed to the downhill race venue at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chonburi. The downhill track, damp with morning dew, signaled a fierce race. All odds were stacked against them: Indonesian riders were on the rise, the weather was relatively favorable, and this event often provides surprises.
But when the finish line finally crossed, the medal color wasn't gold. Indonesia won silver. Still proud, still historic, but not the first gold medal.
Following the results, the team in Chonburi rushed to the kayaking venue, a distance of approximately 64 km, or a little over an hour by car.
There, the team reported the success of the mixed 500-meter team, featuring Indra Hidayat, Ramla Baharuddin, Subhi, and Stevani Maysche Ibo. Initial reports indicated they won gold
At almost the same time, the ANTARA team in Bangkok received news that taekwondo had also secured victory.
Within minutes, the conversation in the coverage group turned into a small debate. Who actually won Indonesia's first gold medal?
The official website of SEA Games 2025 does not update the results in real-time .
Data from Chonburi came in first, while taekwondo match details followed. Amidst this uncertainty, journalists must make precise decisions. Waiting for official confirmation is the safest option.
Soon after, confirmation arrived. Indonesia's first gold medal came in taekwondo, specifically in the men's recognized poomsae team event , won by the trio of Muhammad Rizal, Muhammad Hafizh Fachrul Rhazy, and Muhammad Alfi Kusuma.
