Source: Xinhuanet

08-17-2007 10:25

QINGDAO, East China, Aug. 16 (Xinhua) -- IOC delegation highly appraised Qingdao International Regatta here on Thursday after a two-day inspection.

Hein Verbruggen, chief of the Beijing Olympics Coordination Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), was quite satisfied with the work done at Qingdao International Regatta.

"We have spoken to all of our stakeholders and constituents involved with this event, and without exception, we heard only extremely positive reactions about the word that has been done by Qingdao," he told media Thursday.

Verbruggen said that the IOC officials were highly impressed by the dedication and support of all involved: the mayor, the city, the organization committee and the volunteers.

He added that the IOC delegation has no major questions or concerns to do with the organization, operations or administration of the venue.

"We have not come across one omission or mistake - not one. It is important to note that the only questions raised by the IOC are very simple and are not of great concern. For instance, will the athletes have the opportunity to participate in the opening ceremonies," said Verbruggen.

Gilbert Felli, IOC Olympic Games Executive Director, said that the IOC officials were very pleased that most of the remarks put last year have been resolved.

"Last year was more of a test about the technical aspect of sailing. This year, most of the remarks and suggestions have been resolved, and we are please with this."

The IOC delegation started their tour at Qingdao International Regatta on Wednesday, and they gave the feedback on a news conference Thursday.

Qingdao, a port city in east China's Shandong province, will be the venue for the sailing competition for the 2008 Olympic Games.

The regatta, the second test event for the sailing events of the 2008 Olympic Games, runs from August 9 to 24 and features 11 events of nine classes.

 

Editor:Chen Ge