Taipei, April 23 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian encouraged young students Friday to pursue sportsmanship rather than victory in sports.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 2004 National Middle School Student Sports Games in Hualian, eastern Taiwan, Chen said that sportsmanship is more valuable and more precious than winning, although it is important for an athlete to have the intention, determination and preparedness to win in competitions.
Chen exhorted all participants of the games to follow the rules and to respect the judgment of officials of the games.
The games provide a venue for student athletes to demonstrate their physical strength and sports skills, Chen stressed, adding that success cannot be achieved simply, but only through persistent efforts, accumulated experiences and lessons learned from failures.