Singapore Sailing Federation

WHEN 470 sailor Teo Wee Chin underwent surgery last month, he thought it would be the end of his 2008 Olympic dream.

Little did the 20-year-old, who usually partners Benjamin Tan, expect to be granted a reprieve - from his own teammates.

The other two pairs who are vying for the single 470 slot to represent Singapore in Beijing - Roy Tay/Chung Pei Ming and Xu Yuan Zhen/Terence Koh - decided to postpone selection trials till after his recovery.

Said Terence, 20: 'We are looking forward to Wee Chin's recovery and returning to train with us again. Some countries have already selected their Olympic sailors.

'But, the advantage of a later trial date is also that the best pair are selected to represent Singapore as close to the Olympics as possible.'

Wee Chin is a member of SingaporeSailing's Olympic Squad and Project 0812, which aims to land the Republic a medal at the 2008 or 2012 Olympics.

He underwent surgery on his right shoulder for recurrent dislocation. His recovery is ahead of schedule, but he will be unable to sail until he recovers fully in March.

He is going for daily physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions, and regular strength and conditioning sessions to maintain his fitness. He said: 'With the care and support I have received, recovery has been a breeze. I am very touched by the support my teammates have given.

'There's definitely a lot for me to catch up on, you bet I'll put in my all to give them a run for their money.'

The 470 men had booked an Olympic berth for Singapore at last July's International Sailing Federation World Championships in Portugal, after finishing among the top 21 countries.

Justin Liu, the 420 Junior European Champion, will step in to partner Tan for the 2008 edition, which starts today in Melbourne.