Thai Asian Games athletes meet PM

BANGKOK, Aug 7 (TNA) -- Thai athletes receive words of encouragement from Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha before representing the Kingdom at the 18th Asian Games in Indonesia. Thailand is sending 830 athletes to take part in the 426-gold medal Games in Jakarta and Palembang from August 18 to September 2. Some of the athletes met with Prime Minister Prayut at Government House on Monday before leaving for Indonesia. Gen Prayut said he was impressed of their athletic skills that had granted them places in Thailand team. Wishing them great success at the Games, Gen Prayut also urged them not to compete solely for victory but to show their sportsmanship and seek friendship with their opponents. Representing the nation, all of you were the face of Thailand and its reputation, he told the athletes. The Sports Authority of Thailand said its set a target of 17 gold medals at Asian Games, along with 15 silvers and 28 bronzes from 46 sport disciplines. Thailand won 12 gold medals from the previous Asian Games four years ago in South Korea. (TNA)