Ng's Olympianism has a sweet ring

Singapore track legend C Kunalan has been following very closely Ng Ser Miang's journey to become the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

As Singaporeans wait to see if one of their own can make history when the successor to Jacques Rogge is announced tonight in Buenos Aires, Kunalan (above) believes he is the right man for the role.

Speaking to The New Paper on Monday, the two-time Olympian said Ng had the winning formula as he bids to become the first Asian to lead the world body.

"I've liked so much of what he has said he would do if he becomes IOC president," the 71-year-old said. "I agree with his emphasis on youth, that they should be at the heart of the Olympic movement and have a big role to play in sports.

"Ser Miang has also on a few occasions talked about 'Olympianism' - to build a better world through sport.

"He might not be a former Olympian like (fellow contenders) Sergey Bubka and Thomas Bach, but there's no meaning in being an Olympian if you do not push for Olympianism.

"His plan to hold a big discussion if he wins the election, where no sensitive issue will be taboo, is also a positive.

"All these strong points contribute to a winning formula, in my opinion. I just hope the IOC members feel the same way."

In a career that lasted from 1963 to 1979, the five-time Asian Games medallist also won four golds at the South-east Asian Peninsular (SEAP) Games, along with eight silver and three bronze medals.

Kunalan, former holder of the national 100m record who was Sportsman of the Year in 1968 and 1969, has known Ng for over 40 years.

"As a person, Ser Miang is a thinker. He doesn't just stand and shout, he thinks.

"Ser Miang has achieved so much success already, he doesn't need (the IOC role). But he's doing it because he believes he can contribute something important. I think he's the right man to push for Olympianism."

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