The Australian equestrian eventing team expressed confidence in putting up good show and is not worried about the local weather condition, the team said in a press conference yesterday.

The team manager, Rob Hanna, expected weather to be variable, but added that the team is prepared for bad weather.

The team rider, Clayton Fredericks, said the team had encountered heavy rain before the Olympics.

"We have done a lot of trainings and preparation for the weather," he said.

His wife Lucinda said the horses have now got used to the local hot and humid weather after spending six days here.

Talking about the support from the country, another rider of the team, Shane Rose, said: "Many people back home are coming to cheer up the team. Their support has been amazing."

"It is genuine and helpful. This is not a pressure situation."

He said the supporters will not be put off by the city weather.

The team coach, Wayne Roycroft said the games will be exciting, adding that six teams are capable of winning gold medals.

The Australian team is fielding five riders this time, all of whom are first-time Olympians.

(HK Edition 08/06/2008 page1)