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Published on December 5, 2007

GAT secretary-general Sarayuth Pattanasak said the gymnastics competition at the 24th edition would be more competitive as the hosts and Malaysians will battle it out again for the overall crown.

"I think it will be one of the most exciting clashes. Malaysian gymnasts are regarded our regional rivals. At the previous Games in Manila two years ago, Malaysian and Thai gymnasts fought it out in every discipline," Sarayuth said.

"However, I hope the Thai gymnasts will utilise the home advantage and bag at least seven golds, the same haul we had in Manila," he said.

However, national team manager Theerajit Chanthasen has expressed concerns over the women gymnasts. "Two of our best - Lapas Narongnoo and Thanaporn Kosol - are missing this time. Lapas suffered an elbow injury during training and had to withdraw, while Thanaporn received a ban from the doping control committee," he said.

"I would like to seek justice for Thanaporn. She did not take any banned drug, but only a medicine she received from her personal doctor for her sickness. She has been a prominent part of the Thai team in major competitions. In her absence Thailand are likely to lose some events," he said.

However, the Kingdom's prospects in the men's artistic category brightened with experienced gymnasts joining the team. "Fortunately, veterans Sakda and his younger brother Saran Suwannasa joined us, enhancing our chances of winning more gold medals," said Thitipong Sukdee, who won the gold last time.

"The team is now ready to go for gold in the men's team event. Prospects in rings and pommel horse are bright. Sakda and I will battle it out in the pommel horse event, which is my favourite routine," Thitipong said.

Preechachan Wiriyanupappong

 The Nation

Nakhon Ratchasima