Source:Reuters - Global Times Published: 2012-7-26 23:00:04
More than a century of fierce sporting rivalry means there is nothing the Australian team would like more than to add a little extra rain to the deluge already threatening Britain's parade at the London Olympic Games.
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) have set themselves the goal of fifth place on the medals table, an optimistic target that would probably require them to approach the 49-medal tally they achieved in Athens eight years ago.
Britain's unexpectedly good showing at the Beijing Games helped push the Aussies down to sixth in the rankings and even if they fail to pip the hosts on the medals table, they can still hurt British gold medal hopes in several events.
Chef de Mission Nick Green has said the Australians will do everything they can to gate-crash Britain's party but his predecessor in the role, AOC President John Coates, has been more focused on achieving their own goal.
"I think the signs are there that we could get into the low 40s in our medals and that will be good enough for, if not fifth, then sixth or something like that," Coates told local media last week.
"But it is more difficult for us in Europe. It's not just the Brits, but also the Germans, and France are on their own doorstep. They have very big teams and are more comfortable competing in Europe than they were in Beijing."
The 410-strong Australian team will again look to their swimmers, who won 20 medals in Beijing, to lead the way in the first week of competition.
The failed attempt at a comeback by five-time Olympic champion Ian Thorpe has left the way clear for a new star to shine and James Magnussen has the confidence and, more importantly, the times to fill the void.
There is less confidence on the women's side of the team, where Beijing standout Stephanie Rice has been laboring with a shoulder injury.
Athletics Australia have targeted six medals in track and field with Sally Pearson still a strong favorite to deliver one in the 100m hurdles.
Steve Hooker, by contrast, has hit the depths this year in his preparations for the defense of his pole vault crown and it will be a test of his mettle even to get into the air.
Where Australia could hurt Britain most is in the cycling, where Anna Meares' not so friendly rivalry with Victoria Pendleton is just one of several intriguing battles between Australians and Britons.
Rower Drew Ginn leads a new-look Australian "Oarsome Foursome" best-placed to take on the defending champion British boat in the coxless fours and he would like nothing better than to upset the hosts and win his fourth gold medal.
Green will just be happy for the sport to start in London after a troublesome preparation for the Games, which has taken in allegations of racism, sexism and even a row over who should carry the flag at the opening ceremony.