GTK takes crack at POC head Cojuangco

Athletics chief Go Teng Kok is launching a “Quixotic” campaign for the Philippine Olympic Committee presidency.

The outspoken leader of one of the more efficient national sports associations for more than 20 years yesterday announced plans to run against two-term POC chief Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr. on Nov. 30.

While Go commands a handful of NSA votes, he   admitted that he is “no match” against Cojuangco in the polls.

“I have no chance of winning against him. No way,” said Go “But I’m doing this to awaken my fellow NSA leaders to step up at the plate and bring in the much needed change. My declaration is a wake-up call to all NSA heads. I believe there’s one among you who is more than qualified to challenge and eventually beat Peping.”

Go added that if  another NSA official decides to run for the POC top post, he would withdraw his candidacy and instead  throw his support behind him.

Go also ran for the POC presidency and lost to Celso Dayrit in 2000. He encouraged Cojuangco to run in 2004 and eventually became his top ally  before having a falling out with the POC as head of the karatedo association.

Meanwhile, Cojuangco welcomed Go’s decision to oppose him.

“I want him (Go) to run and see how many votes he will get,’’ said Cojuangco after yesterday’s POC general assembly attended by 37 of 43 national sports association representatives. With a report from June Navarro