CGF President Fennell confident of Delhi 2010's success

Commonwealth Games Federation President Mr. Mike Fennell has said he is confident that the venues will be ready and the overlays will be installed in time for the Games.

Delivering the opening address at a Seminar for the Chefs de Mission of the 71 countries here on Tuesday, he also reiterated the fact that the Commonwealth Games’ unique position as the Friendly Games. “These are our Games and India is only hosting them for us,” he said. “I am sure you have already experienced the fantastic hospitality that India is capable of.”

“Over the next couple of days, you will visit all the Games venues and find them in various stages of completion. I am sure that the venues will be ready and the overlays will be installed in time for the Games,” Mr. Fennell said. “Some of the venues are completed and test events have either been held or will be held soon.”

“I am pleased that the Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi, backed by the Government of India, has overcome all hurdles that have come in its way,” he said. “There will be challenges but I am sure that we will face them and ensure a successful Games for the athletes by offering them world class facilities for stay and competition.”

Earlier, welcoming the Chefs de Mission, Organising Committee Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi Chairman Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, MP, said that his team was gearing itself up to deliver a great Games. “We are confident of delivering a high-class experience to your contingents, including memorable Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the best Games Village,” he said.

“The Games are a symbol of national pride for us and your athletes are at the centrestage in all our efforts,” Mr. Kalmadi said. “We have accorded the highest priority to the sports equipment and will use only brands that are used at the highest level of competition like Olympic Games, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.”

“With the support of the Governments of India and Delhi, we are doing everything to produce a great Games. We need your support to make it the best Games,” he said.