Q&A >> Noriyuki Ichihara

What do you think of the organization of the Guangzhou Asian Games?

The organization here is very good, and so are the venues. The volunteers are also very helpful. It shows that Guangzhou is capable of hosting an Olympic Games.

Hiroshima hosted the Asian Games in 1994. Is Japan planning to bid for another major event?

Hiroshima is now considering bidding for the 2020 Olympic Games.

Do you think it's necessary for host China to not care much about winning gold medals and give more chances to the other countries?

The strong athletes should win the gold medals, there is no doubt about that. So, it's not necessary for athletes not to strive for gold.

I don't think China can maintain such an overwhelming advantage in Asia. More and more countries and regions will catch up with China. Japan maintained the lead for eight Asian Games, but was gradually passed by China and Korea. It's a natural rule.

(China Daily 11/22/2010)