Despite breaking three records and winning eight gold medals at the 29th SEA Games, Vietnamese swimmer Anh Vien said she wished she had been able to meet the goal of earning ten gold medals for Vietnam.

Swimmer Anh Vien arrived at Tan Son Nhat Airport on August 28

Arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCM City on August 28, Anh Vien said, "Actually, it's not a too difficult task for me. I regret not achieving that goal. I wasn’t too confident in the first competitions. I tried harder later but the schedule was not favourable."

Anh Vien won eight gold medals, two silvers and broke three records. Vien said if her schedule were more favourable, she would have been able to win more gold medals.

"Right now, my goal is at the Asian Games. I'll do my best to win for those who have supported me," she said.

Coach Dang Anh Tuan said the pressure on Anh Vien was huge as she was expected to continue earning eight gold medals or more from last SEA Games. Tuan said Anh Vien successfully completed her mission as she had to face competition from many athletes to won eight golds and set three records.

As each athlete is awarded VND45m (USD2,000) for a gold medal and VND25m for a silver, Anh Vien will be given a total of VND410m (USD18,000). She will also be given VND45m for three records at SEA Games this year, and quick additional VND96m awards on the spot for the gold and silver medals.

A sponsor previously promised to give her a VND16m (USD703) TV for each gold medal and she should be awarded by the military swimming club. Other sponsors may also give gifts to her and use it as a promotional opportunity.

Track and field, swimming and women football teams are given most award money for their achievements. The men’s football team is given the worst bonuses after losing 3-0 to Thailand in last Group B clash.

Dtinews