| November 15, 2006 -- Through a new initiative by the Singapore National Olympic Council, about 24 local athletes will be given the green light to receive as much as $7 million in additional funding support to prepare for the Olympic Games in 2008 and 2012. |
| The funding will be allocated towards specialized support such as overseas training with Olympic-class coaches, additional competition experience and working with sports psychologists to overcome mental blocks. |
| “We know our athletes have the desire to win,” commented SNOC President Teo Chee Hean. “It’s our job to provide them with the extra logistical support they need to do their job.” Mr. Teo made the announcement during the Flag Presentation ceremony for the Doha Asian Games Team at ITE College East. |
| Among the top beneficiaries will likely be athletes from table tennis, badminton, sailing and shooting. Over the past 18 months, Singapore has seen a steady improvement in its standings at the Commonwealth, Asian and South East Asian Games. However, it has not won an Olympic medal since 1960 even though the country elite table tennis players were within reach of a bronze medal in both 2000 and 2004. “By drawing on additional resources, we hope to see the breakthrough we all have been working towards,” Mr. Teo said. |
| The $7 million fund will be distinct from the government’s existing financial commitment to sports development through the Singapore Sports Council. However, the fund will be financed primarily through the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sport and the Singapore Totalisator Board. |
| The SNOC will work with the SSC and MCYS to meet the needs of the athletes chosen for the program. Overseeing the work will be Ng Ser Miang, who is a Vice President of the SNOC and a member of the exco of the International Olympic Committee. |
| “There are no guarantees in sport, just commitment and effort,” said Mr. Teo. “This new funding initiative is another sign of our commitment and faith in our athletes.” |
