Preparations washed out as storm rips through GB camp
Team GB lost valuable preparation time for the Olympics Games after their training base was hit by torrential weather.
Tropical storm Kammuri ripped through the team camp in Macau, Hong Kong, forcing athletes to dive for cover. While vital training schedules were cancelled, the storm also caused disruption to the Olympic equestrian event, which is being staged there. Two planes carrying 24 show jumping horses from China, USA and United Arab Emirates were all delayed, and may also now lead to Saturday’s start of the competition to be put back.
British heptathlete Kelly Sotherton said the last 24 hours have been frustrating for athletes undergoing their final preparations.
“We can’t leave the hotel because when there’s a typhoon at this Level 8 all the transport is cancelled, so unfortunately we are all holed up in a hotel,” said Sotherton. “You can’t do anything about it, but it’s something that happens and affects everybody. I’m not too bothered about it because I could do with the day off.”
Team GB spokesman Graham Newsom said contingency plans had already been put in place in case of bad weather. “It’s not a huge issue. It was something that was accounted for,” he added.
“We’re making the best use of the indoor facilities and some sports have decided to use this as a rest day.”