Although we had what could be termed as a successful Olympic Games experience, we need to revaluate the way athletes prepare for such games with more funding and better training so that peaks occur at the right moments, such as London 2012.

This was the gist of the message hammered home by Malta Olympic Committee Sporting Director Pippo Psaila during a press conference by the MOC called to assess Malta's performance during the 29th Olympiad.

"We had what one can describe as a double faceted experience. In swimming we did excellently but in athletics we have to say that we disappointed with athletes not reach a PB in their heat. Even our stars such as Marcon Bezzina (judo) and William Chetchuti (shooting) could have done better and as self critical athletes know that this is the truth. We need more funding and the restructuring at the MOC will continue working to train athletes to peak on the big day".

Mr Psaila said that in September an ambitious coaching program aimed at improving standards in all affiliated associations will begin and there will also be courses for administrative staff. He mentioned Team GB's performance and how this has exploded with properly applied funding adding that although we cannot hope to match such sums, we can either choose to be 'relegated to mediocrity' or aspire to be the best.

Chef de Mission Julian Pace Bonello praised the facilities in Beijing and said that the athletes performed up to expectations. He also thanked the local team of doctors, coaches and other support staff who were instrumental in ensuring that the experience was a positive one.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth and Sport Clyde Puli said that the Games were truly a remarkable experience. He said that notwithstanding the criticism leveled at Malta's performance, the results obtained were far from tragic whilst also acknowledging the fact that more funding and better facilities were required if we are to improve these results.

"One must not forget that this government is committed to improve sporting facilities across the country and we will continue investing in sports. Over the past four years we have given funds in the region of e1,360,000 to the MOC and we hope to be able to increase that if possible", Mr Puli added.

MOC President Judge Lino Farrugia Sacco said that every athlete gave of their best and if there were some disappointing performances, we should like at the cup which is 'half full and not half empty'. He said that contrary to reports which appeared in the media, participation at the Olympic Games is not just related to sports but there were also lots of important meetings which were attended by MOC officials and the Parliamentary Secretary which should bring a boost to Malta in the long run.

"Some comments which I read in the newspapers were extremely disappointing as they show a lack of understanding and perception. I met staff from the Italian and United States delegations who were glowing about our performance and the IOC has even promised to increase our funding - they are not the types to throw money away. We should look at the positive side of things instead of creating controversies out of nothing, Mr Farrugia Sacco added.

Parliamentary Secretary Puli also presented a donation of e69,000 from the government for MOC expenses whilst eithth placed shooter William Chetcuti was presented with a special diploma from the IOC for his achievements.