A team of 20 Chinese sports coaches has arrived in Samoa to boost the Pacific nation's preparations for next year's South Pacific Games, which it will host.
Weightlifting coach and team leader Zhang Wenxi said the coaches, who are accompanied by four interpreters, were determined to help Samoa athletes develop a winning edge.
"The best way for Samoa to do well is for everyone to work together, and to train hard, smart and often," Zhang said.
The coaching contingent was welcomed to Samoa this week by Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Malielegaoi, who thanked China for responding to Samoa's appeal for coaching assistance.
Malielegaoi said that Samoan sports bodies and athletes should take full advantage of the expertise the Chinese coaches could provide.
China has already made a substantial contribution to Samoa's preparation for the games, which run Aug. 25 to Sept. 8, contributing to the construction of an international standard Aquatic Center. A technical team of seven engineers is due to arrive shortly to assist with maintenance at the pool.
China is also assisting Samoa with the renovation of the Apia Park stadium that will be used for track and field events.
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