Cai Zhenhua, the deputy director of China's State General Administration of Sport, was elected president of Chinese Badminton Association on Wednesday.

Cai spoke highly of his predecessor Li Furong on his great achievements in last 12 years in the helm.

"Thanks to Li's efforts, the Chinese badminton has what it looks today,"said Cai. "I hope we can make more miracles in the future."

Li, who will become a honorary vice president, noted that he witnessed the wax and wane of the Chinese badminton.

"In 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, we failed to win any gold medal (in badminton). In 1994 Asian Games, we had only bronze medals in pocket,"said Li."

"However, after that, we decided to make a drastic change. New blood like Li Yongbo was promoted to coach the national team and they helped the Chinese badminton reach a new high," Li added.

In 2000 Sydney Games, China secured four gold medals in badminton, and in 2008 Beijing Olympics, China snatched three gold, two silver and three bronze medals with a top three place in each of the five disciplines.

There are 19 vice presidents of the association, including Liu Fengyan and Li Yongbo.

(Xinhua News Agency February 19, 2009)