SINGAPORE - Team Singapore's 2016 Olympians and Paralympians were hosted by President Tony Tan Keng Yam at a tea reception at the Istana on Saturday (Nov 19).

After a video montage of both Games was screened, President Tan congratulated Olympic champion Joseph Schooling, double Paralympic champion Yip Pin Xiu and Paralympic bronze medallist Theresa Goh for their medal efforts.

Commending all athletes for their performance in Rio, he added: "Qualifying for the Olympics or Paralympics is in itself an extraordinary achievement. It takes years of hard work, commitment and perseverance to train, and ultimately, compete against the best athletes in the world.

"I had the opportunity to meet and interact with some of you during your training sessions earlier this year. What I sensed then was your tremendous determination to do your best, and do Singapore proud in Rio.

"It is this strength of character in each and every one of you which embodies the spirit of the Games, and continues to inspire all of us."

Swimmer Quah Zheng Wen and para archer Syahidah Alim also shared details of their preparation for the Rio Games.

Addressing the crowd, Syahidah added: "Here's to paving more milestones for Singapore at the next Games."