Team China aim on top of Asiad gold tally, says chef de mission

Liu Peng, chef de mission of the Chinese delegation for Incheon Asian Games, told media Thursday that China have set target on topping the medals and gold medal tables of the 17th Asian Games, which to start in Incheon on Friday.

"We've been the leaders on both medals and gold medal tables of Asian Games for nine straight editions," said Liu at the flag rising and welcome ceremony held at the athletes' village. "Of course we want to keep on winning this time."

Sending a delegation of more than 1,300 athletes and officials, including 33 Olympic champions, Team China will participate in all but one of the 36 sports at the Sept 19 to Oct 4 Asiad.

"The Asian Games are not only a competition but a platform for countries and regions from all over the continent to comunicate, cooperate, exchange opinions and better understanding each other.

"Therefore, we expect more than just titles and medals and No. 1 position in the tally from our athletes, but hope them to to show fighting spirit and sportsmanship at the games," added Liu.

At the last Asiad in Guangzhou four years ago, China collected 199 golds for a total of 416 medals, to 232 for South Korea and 216 for Japan.

However, Liu again stressed on the performance of the "Big Ball" (soccer, basketball and volleyball), saying that the results of those teams will carry great significance.

"It's an uphill battle for our three 'Big Ball' teams in Incheon," he said. "I hope they see it as both a test and a chance to accumulate experience."