Attending Beijing Olympics a wonderful cultural experience
Source: China Daily
Date: 07/18/08
OTTAWA – Canadian athletes consider their upcoming trip to Beijing not only about competition, but also a unique opportunity to experience both China’s modern wonders and its ancient civilization, said Michael Chambers, president of Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) on Thursday.
Having been to Beijing for three times, Chambers said that he himself is also viewing the Games as the best time to satisfy his interest in Chinese culture.
“What I am most looking forward to is through the opening ceremonies presentation, I could learn more and experience more the culture of China, and come away more sewed with my understanding of the culture of China,” he told Xinhua in an interview.
While their primary focus in Beijing would be competition, Canadian athletes will be very anxious to take the opportunities to see and experience the modern China and its history, so that when they come back they will be very proud for having a better knowledge about China.
“This is important, very important,” he stressed.
Chambers sees Beijing well-prepared for hosting the Games. The venues are terrific and are going to be equal for the speed and to the caliber of athletes. The city itself and the people there are also ready to welcome the athletes and visitors from throughout the world, he said.
The Canadian government has decided to send a large delegation led by Foreign Minister David Emerson to attend the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Games. This reflects Canada’s strong interest in improving bilateral relations with China, said Chambers.
Talking about his expectations for the Canadian team’s performance in the Games, Chambers said Canada targets top 16, with the strongest possibilities of getting medals in canoe/kayak, rowing, diving, swimming, athletics, sailing, and trampoline.
The Canadian team ended the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics with 12 medals, placing 19th in the overall medal count.
