SINGAPORE - Officials leading athletes to Brazil for the Olympic and Paralympic Games gave an update of Team Singapore's preparations a month before the Olympic Games kick off on Aug 5 in Rio de Janeiro.
Extensive measures are being taken for a Games that is standing out from past major Games for many reasons, in order to safeguard athletes from the health and security concerns.
Said Olympic Games chef de mission Low Teo Ping: "This Games in particular, is quite unlike all the other Games I've been involved with, especially in the lead-up. It's a Games that, on top of the sports events, has also financial, politics, security and economic concerns."
Unlike other Games, a "bag of tricks" that includes arm and calf sleeves, mosquito repellant, essential oil and diffuser for every room athletes stay in and permethrin solution for athletes to soak their clothes in beforehand has been prepared.
But both Low and Paralympic Games chef de mission Ho Cheng Kwee gave assurance that ample preparation has been done, and athletes and officials given detailed briefs. Athletes and officials are also advised to move from "bubble" to "bubble" - within Olympic venues - where security will be stepped up and expected to be tight.
Said Ho: "The confidence (from athletes) is there. They are counting down to the day of their events rather than thinking about the issues. Our message to them is, do your training and preparation. We will take care of the rest."
Singapore will send at least 25 athletes across seven sports to the Olympic Games, which take place from Aug 5-21. The Paralympics, which take place from Sept 7-18, will feature a record 11 Singapore para-athletes in five sports.