Olympic chief sets target of one gold, but Thai team shines with potential
The Olympic Committee of Thailand (OCT) has set an initial target of one gold medal for Thai athletes at next month’s Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
OCT secretary general Charouck Arirachakaran predicts it could come from taekwondo, boxing or weightlifting, which have produced medals for Thailand in the past several Olympics.
“We set our target at one gold so as to avoid disappointment by aiming too high,” said Charouck. “Potential [for a Thai gold] is good in taekwondo. But let’s not forget that boxing and weightlifting are also strong sports for us,” added the Thai Olympic chief.
Charouck also named skeet shooter Sutiya Jiewchaloemmit and golfer Thongchai Jaidee as medal prospects when the Games start on August 5.
“Thongchai could cause a surprise. A lot will depend on whether he has played the competition course before. In golf knowing the course is the key. ”
“Meanwhile I don’t think Sutiya Jiewchaloemmit fears anyone after finally beating beat her big American rival [Kimberly Rhode at the World Cup in Rio]. That win boosted her confidence dramatically.”
Charouck also cautioned against placing too much pressure on Thai athletes, whose performances could suffer under the weight of expectation.
“All athletes go to the Olympics with high hopes and determination to give their all to win. But too much expectation could backfire. We should let them focus on their campaigns and respect their privacy.”
Charouck said the identity of the flag-bearer for Thailand at the opening ceremony on August 5 had yet to be decided. Badminton player Ratchanok Intanon was the initial choice until a doping controversy placed her spot on the national team in jeopardy, said the Olympic chief.
Charouck also mentioned that Thai athletes scheduled to compete the next day had been advised to skip the lengthy and potentially tiring opening ceremony.
However, a quartet that features BMX rider Amanda Carr and sailor Kamolwon Chanyim will definitely be in the parade since they have been chosen to showcase the Thai national costume.
Charouck also warned all Thais at the Games to be on guard for their personal safety amid a spike in crime in Brazil.
