By Terry Maddaford
Rhona Robertson will not chase a place in a third Olympic badminton team but is not turning her back on the sport in which she has played internationally for so long.
"I've been to two Olympics and enjoyed them but it would be unrealistic to expect a medal in Sydney, said the 28-year-old Robertson yesterday.
"Even trying to qualify would mean a huge commitment including going back to Europe. With my increasing work load I can't afford the time.
"I'm satisfied with what I have achieved. Been there, done that. But, who knows, the Commonwealth Games in three years' time might not be out of the question.
Robertson is adamant about one thing, singles will no longer be her focus. She will continue to play doubles with long-time partner Tammy Jenkins and in this weekend's Waitakere Open the mixed doubles with Andrew Haliday.
"Li Feng is clearly our top singles player but if they want me to I will go as the reserve for competitions like the Whyte Trophy and Uber Cup, said Robertson.
"Playing mixed doubles is a bit of a challenge but one I'm looking forward to.
After a break since last year's Commonwealth Games, the country's top players will ease themselves back into action over the next couple of weeks, although Sheree Jefferson (in England) and Amanda Carter (recovering from injury) will be missing.
Li Feng is continuing her build-up after the knee injury which curtailed her play last year and national coach Graeme Robson hopes she will be ready when a strong Chinese team arrives on July 6.
"They are bringing their B side of four men and four women and top coach Li Yongbo for a two-week stay. They will be the best players we have ever seen here. It will be invaluable in our build-up to the Whyte Trophy test series and the Oceania Championships, said Robson.
New Zealand will play the Whyte Trophy in Canberra, Newcastle and Brisbane from July 23-28 and play the Oceania Championships - the first tournament with Olympic ranking points - from July 29-August 1.
The New Zealand team, four men and four women, for the Whyte Trophy will be named after the North Island Championships at Papakura over Queen's Birthday weekend. The selectors will also name a further six players for the Oceania Championships.
Top men's singles player Nick Hall will by-pass the Waitakere Open but will play the North Harbour Open the following weekend and the North Island Championships.
