President Ma Ying-jeou has met with medalists from this year’s Asian Games, which wrapped up last Saturday in Incheon, South Korea. Also on hand at Monday’s meet and greet, were the medalists from the Youth Olympic Games, which took place this summer in Nanjing, China.
The president lauded the athletes for their achievements. He said that in addition to offering prize money to the winners, the government also values training. He said that the large increase in Taiwan’s medals at this year’s Youth Olympics is a sign that the training programs have born fruit. The team, participating under the name Chinese Taipei, picked up three gold, three silver and two bronze medals.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s athletes at the Asian Games picked up ten golds, and the team was ranked seventh in the overall medal count.
In his remarks on Monday, President Ma also spoke about how Taiwan’s athletic programs employ experts in sports science, who can help give the nation’s athletes a competitive edge.
“Our methods are more advanced, not relying solely on outright strength," said Ma. "And in a lot of areas, there are scientific principles which can offer assistance, and create a more systematic, organized team. I’m sure you are all well aware that the difference between gold and silver is minute. Sometimes all it takes is a little experience or knowledge, so we are willing to provide manpower and resources to that regard."
Ma gave the example of two of Taiwan’s female weightlifters, who were able to come back after injuries, and not only win gold medals at the Asian Games, they also both broke world records.