Uruguay's two main sprinters tuned up their performance for the upcoming Beijing 2008 Olympic Games at the South American Grand Prix held last weekend in Montevideo.

Uruguayan sprinters, Andres Silva (400 meters) and Heber Viera (200), said they are currently training for the Beijing Game, rather than competing, and they were not aiming to win the gold medals in this event.

"We want to be at our maximum capacity during the Olympic Games," said Viera to local daily El Observador on Monday.

Viera also represented Uruguay at Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004.

Meanwhile, Silva, Uruguaya's Athlete of the Year in 2005 and 2006 according to Uruguay's Olympic Committee, echoed: "this period is all work and no competition, that is why I am happy."

Silva was beaten in the 400-meter race by Brazilian runner Fernando Pereira (46.9) to settle for a silver on 47.6 seconds, while his best time is 45.89.

Viera also missed the 200 meter title after being beaten by Brazilian Sandro Viana (21.42), and won the silver medal with a time 21.73.

Both athletes will conclude their training for the Beijing Olympics in Europe.

(Xinhua News Agency April 15, 2008)