VOICED: China going for Olympic gold in London

The video discusses the journey of a young athlete training to become an Olympic table tennis champion, highlighting the rigorous training and discipline required. It explores China's athlete selection system, which focuses on physical attributes over passion, and its role in China's success in the 2008 Olympics. The video also examines the support provided to athletes by the state and the potential future of this system. It notes signs of reform, with efforts to engage the public and develop domestic leagues. Despite these changes, the next generation of Olympians is expected to remain state-sponsored, aiming for success in the 2012 London Olympics.

What is the primary focus of the young athlete's training routine?

• Improving shotmaking skills and technique

• Winning local tournaments

• Participating in international competitions

• Learning new sports

How are young athletes typically selected in China's state-sponsored system?

• Based on their academic performance

• Through public competitions

• By their physical attributes

• According to their personal interest in sports

What was a significant outcome of China's athlete selection system in 2008?

• China topped the gold medal tally

• China hosted the Winter Olympics

• China increased public sports participation

• China developed new sports facilities

What changes are being considered in the state-sponsored sports system?

• Eliminating state funding

• Reducing the number of athletes

• Developing more domestic leagues

• Focusing solely on international competitions

What is the anticipated future of China's state-sponsored sports system?

• It will continue with state support

• It will stop producing Olympians

• It will be completely privatized

• It will focus only on rural athletes