China still plays down its chances with Beijing Olympics 2 1/2 weeks away

China is still playing down its gold-medal chances at the Beijing Olympics, which open in 2 1/2 weeks.

Zhang Haifeng, a spokesman for the General Administration of Sport, made the most conservative prediction possible on Tuesday, saying China would surpass the 32 gold medals it won four years ago in Athens, when it was second only to the United States.

"We will strive to do better than 32 gold medals this year," Zhang said. "But it will be extremely challenging as our competitors are very strong."

In the last year, China and the United States have made a game out of playing down their medal prospects in Beijing. Many expect …