On March 20th, there was an official sending-off ceremony for the Singapore-Latin American Everest 2001 Expedition, which was held at the Singapore Recreation Club. President S R Nathan, who is the patron for the Expedition, and the Ambassador for Brazil, His Excellency Mr Paolo Pinheiro, presided at the ceremony, where the Singaporean and Brazilian flags were presented to the team. Speaking at the ceremony, President Nathan said, "This is one effort to strengthen the economic and cultural bonds between Singapore and Latin America, as well as encourage the development of sports between the two countries. This team has shown that Singaporeans are prepared to go international for an adventure, and are ready to face challenges. I wish them all success."
						From left Roz, Beng Cheong, David, President S R Nathan, Gil and Teng Sern.
				With our flags, from left, Ambassador for Brazil, His Excellency Mr Paolo Pinheiro, President S R Nathan and Gil.