Tamayo sets magic number at 30 golds

NAY PYI TAW, Myanmar—If everything goes according to plan, the Philippines could win a maximum of 49 gold medals and a minimum of 32 in the 27th Southeast Asian Games in this vast Burmese capital.

The forecast is based on a thorough study conducted by the Philippine Sports Commission, a copy of which was furnished to the Inquirer Sunday by Commissioner Jolly Gomez.

Gomez said the projection was based on their discussion with coaches apart from results of the previous SEA Games and the Asian Games as well as the Olympics.

Chef de mission Jeff Tamayo, however, kept the projected medal count at 30 gold medals.

“The magic number is 30 so let’s start from there,” said Tamayo.  “Our athletes are here because they passed the criteria, which is their performance compared to the previous SEA Games, their performances in 2012 and 2013 or individual ones compared to the previous SEA Games. So whether they live up to expectations is up to them.”