TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the Paris Summer Olympics draw near, Taiwan's gymnastics team coach Lin Yu-hsin expressed confidence on Tuesday (Jan. 16) in the potential medal prospects of Tang Chia-hung and Olympic silver medalist Lee Chih-kai.
The Taiwanese Olympic delegation had visited the Accor Arena in Paris, the recognized gymnastics venue, for a tour on Tuesday. Lin noted that Taiwanese gymnasts are well-acquainted with the Accor Arena, having previously participated in four events at the location. After the visit, he confirmed the warm-up venue has been separated by gender, with equipment matching that found in their national training center, adhering to global standards.
While no Taiwanese athlete has yet secured qualification, Lin believes the favorable performance in pommel horse by Lee Chih-kai, horizontal bar by Tang Chia-hung, and rings by Lin Kuan-yi could earn them a place in the Olympics and possibly podium finishes.
The Accor Arena has hosted various sports events since 1984 and underwent renovation in recent years. Taiwan plans to send six participants including Lee Chih-kai for the pommel horse, Hsiao Yu-jan, Tang Chia-hung for the horizontal bar, Hung Yuan-hsi for the parallel bars, Lin Kuan-yi for rings, and Tseng Wei-sheng for the vault. Lin elucidated that sending strong individual contestants with a focus on health is crucial to securing points.
Confidence is high for Lee Chih-kai and Tang Chia-hung, both recognized for their skilled performances and reputation. Given their prime age, they are anticipated to easily qualify.