SEA Games-Thailand 2007

It has come and gone, the 24th SEA Games in Thailand is my first Games assignment and could be the longest overseas assignment (3 weeks), until the next one comes along. Its not as punishing as I thought it would be, probably because of the unexpected events that happen daily. My reporter, Xiujing and I were the most well-travelled and longest-serving team among the Singapore Press. We covered all 3 places (Bangkok, Korat and Pattaya) and worked for 22 days. I had a great time except for the travelling time and the vomit-inducing ride out at sea while covering the sailing at Pattaya. Try getting a shot with a 600mm lens while sitting on a small speedboat in choppy sea.... 9 frames out of 10 will be off and the fishes will be well-fed with your breakfast.

I got a feel of the solidarity of photojournalist from various countries when we boycotted a swimming final. It happened after the organisers decided to ban us from the pool side, even after being allowed to shoot there for the past 2 days. We were told to shoot from the spectator stands. The shots from the stands will be crap, hence, we staged a boycott, except for a few.



Photographers boycotting the swimming finals by refusing to shoot from the spectators stands. (Left) My pal Trevor from TODAY.


I promise to put up pictures of SEA Games 2007-Unposed! A little tribute to sports photographers, who went to great lengths to capture the decisive moments in sports photography. I am beginning to love this unique trade. Till the next Games comes along...



Singapore's Peter Edward Gilchrist in the Men's Team Snooker Semi-Finals.