Look to Rio

Sports minister Mark Brown told athletes to set their eyes on the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in four years time after welcoming Team Cook Islands at Rarotonga Airport yesterday.

Brown, who journeyed with the team to witness the London Olympics’ opening ceremony, said it was a ”special day“ to welcome the team home at the recently-upgraded VIP lounge.

”This lounge is for us, for the Cook Islands, to welcome in VIPs from outside the country,“ Brown said.

”Today, you’re our VIPs and we welcome you here.“

Brown emphasised the performances at the London showcase were ones the ”young team“ had to learn from with an eye to the next Olympics scheduled for Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

”For us, we should be setting our sights on Rio – we can only grow from London.“

Brown said watching the Olympians on television was a ”thrill“ and he thanked the athletes and management that used social media to update curious Cook Islands supporters on life in the village.

Weightlifter Luisa Peters was especially highlighted for her work in putting the preliminary 100 metres sprint races featuring Patricia Taea and Patrick Tuara on Facebook.

”Thanks to all of you for letting us have a glimpse of the experience you were all having.“