The Australian Olympic Committee has announced that they expect to make the top five in the overall Olympic medal table. However they have conceded that 'arch-rivals' Great Britain have ousted them in big events such as rowing and cycling. Apparently they're relying on the similar time-zone in Beijing to give them an advantage against their European competition.

One Aussie who won't be able to contribute is Nathan Deakes. What? You haven't heard of him? He was the favourite for the 50km walk, but has been forced to pull out with a hamstring injury. Did someone forget to tell him that it's the taking part that counts and not the winning? I mean, a walking trip in Beijing - that sounds like a great summer holiday! Perhaps the Aussies have a different Olympic motto. I'm sure they do, which is why I’m sure they'll end up in the world's top five, with or without their broken down walking machines.
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