Greek beach volleyball eyeing top eight spots
The two Greek beach volleyball teams have arrived in China and had their first training session yesterday prior to taking part in the Beijing Olympics. The more experienced pair of Vasso Karadassiou and Vicky Arvaniti are aiming at a spot in the top eight of the competition, after finishing ninth in the Athens Games four years ago. «The only thing we want now is to stay healthy and show our true selves in the Games,» said a relaxed Arvaniti. Yianna Tsiartsiani and Thalia Koutroumanidou are hoping for a good showing that will also boost their world ranking. «We are in great shape with Thalia in the court and this helps bolster our morale,» stated Tsiartsiani, the only one of the four to be competing in the Olympic Games for the first time. Federation president Thanassis Beligratis was cautious when asked about Greece’s medal prospects in the event: «Nothing can be taken for granted in sport,» he said.
