HONG KONG, July 29 (Xinhua) -- The equestrian team of the Netherlands had set three medals, including two golds, as their goal in the upcoming Beijing Olympic Equestrian events, said the team's deputy chief here Tuesday.
"We aim at two gold medals in dressage and jumping," George JongDe told Xinhua at Hong Kong Olympic Village, adding 10 riders of his team would compete in the equestrian events.
The Netherlands equestrian team has been regarded as one of the strongest equestrian teams of the world, with Van Grunsven, the two-time Olympic gold medallist, perhaps the most famous rider in the team.
Van Grunsven, who won the individual dressage gold in 2000 and 2004, clinched victory over Isabell Werth of Germany, a four-time individual and team gold medallist, at the FEI World Cup dressage final in March.
It is expected that Van Grunsven will ride against Werth in the 2008 Olympic equestrian events.
Also on Tuesday, Danish team showed much optimism about their performance at the Olympic events.
"We expect to win a gold medal in the team dressage event," said Jens-erik Majlund, deputy chief of the team.
He said that four Danish riders will compete in dressage and eventing and their moral is high.
Asked whether their horses have got accustomed to Hong Kong's hot and humid weather, Majlund said that the horses are "perfect" as their stables are air-conditioned.
On the issue of air quality, he said there is no pollution problem in Hong Kong. "We are not concerned about pollution."
Russia sent two riders to the Olympic equestrian event. "We have very good chance to win a medal in dressage," said Russian team chief Vladimir Tishkin, noting that Alexandra Korelova is the most favorite person to win the medal.
The Beijing Olympic equestrian events will kick off on Aug. 9 and 204 athletes from 42 countries and regions are expected to participate.
Up to date, athletes from 27 countries and regions have arrived at Hong Kong Olympic Village.
Special report: 2008 Olympic Games
