Support athletes whose parents can't afford to

Executive editor Sumiko Tan's interview gave us a very good insight into Olympic gold medallist Joseph Schooling's penchant for swimming and his aspiration to compete in the Olympics (Singapore's most famous mum; March 5).

He is a very determined and talented swimmer, and is very lucky to have parents who helped him achieve his goal.

Things would have been different if Mr and Mrs Schooling had not or could not support him and send him to the United States for training when he was 14 years old.

What would happen if another talented and ambitious swimmer is bent on competing in the Olympics, but does not have a super mum or dad who can afford to send him overseas for training? Singapore would lose a rare opportunity for an athlete to win a gold medal.

It is time that Singapore has talent scouts to spot young potential sportsmen and women.

The Government should also consider sponsoring them or awarding them scholarships, as an investment in our sporting talents.

Ronald Lee Yew Kee

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on March 08, 2017, with the headline Support athletes whose parents can't afford to. Subscribe