The Olympic obstacle course

The violence may further hamper preparations by marathon runners who hope to represent Asia8217;s youngest nation at the Olympics in August. East Timor runners training for the Games have already discovered that the road to Beijing is paved with obstacles.

8220;Based on our programme, training should be done every day but sporadic incidents like gangs throwing rocks on the street makes us afraid,8221; said Antonio Soares Xavier, who was conducting a training session with athletes. Factional bloodshed two years ago killed 37 people and drove 150,000 from their homes, with foreign troops needed to restore order and setting back development in what was already one of the world8217;s poorest nations.

A new state of emergency declared after the shooting of Ramos-Horta, gang violence, vandalism and arson still persist. An unemployment rate estimated at about 50 per cent has helped fan a gang culture among bored youths. Trainer Xavier said that 42 athletes, some of whom are living in camps for displaced people dotted around the capital after their houses were torched, were trying to train for events ranging from 100 metres to the marathon.

He conceded that it was a tough job. 8220;We haven8217;t got the funds for athletes8217; needs such as training kit, food and training centres.8221; Despite the difficult circumstances, he paid tribute to the commitment of the athletes. 8220;I think some of our athletes are ready to compete in any competition, they are ready physically and in terms of discipline.8221;

The president of the country8217;s National Olympics Committee said that East Timor had been given special dispensation to send several athletes despite not reaching the qualifying bar.