FOR 48 years, Singapore struggled in vain for a second Olympic medal.

Weightlifter Tan Howe Liang's silver-medal feat at the 1960 Rome Games was the lone spark in the Republic's less-than impressive Olympic history.

This year, however, hopes are high that the barren spell will finally be broken at the Beijing Olympics, which start next month.

Singapore is sending 25 athletes - its largest contingent since it sent 52 sportsmen as part of the Malaya squad to the
1956 Melbourne Games.

And chef de mission Dr Tan Eng Liang is confident that this is the most well-prepared squad for the medal assault.

Speaking at yesterday's flag presentation ceremony at Plaza Singapura, he said: "What pleases me most is that many of our athletes qualified outright, instead of gaining entry via wildcards or invitation.

"It shows that we can meet the high international standards that the Olympics have set.

"With a little bit of mental strength, a medal is definitely possible for this contingent."

When asked if a gold medal is within Singapore's reach, Dr Tan laughed and said: "Any colour
will do! It's been so long since we've won anything."

Paddler Li Jiawei, who came close at the 2004 Athens Games with a fourth-place finish in the women's
singles event, will be Singapore's flag bearer for the Opening Ceremony on Aug 8.

She and her team-mates Wang Yuegu and Feng Tianwei have the best chance among all Singapore athletes in the team event, judging by their second-place showing in March's World Team Championships.