Safe, secure and splendid Games - India's promise to Australia

Wheelchair athlete Kristy Pond earned the honour of carrying the Queen's baton, for 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games, on its first leg on Australian soil here today.

The Baton Relay arrived as part of a tour of all 71 Commonwealth countries leading up to the XIX edition of the Games to be held in Indian capital in October this year.

Later Commonwealth Games road cycling champion, Natalie Bates took the baton to Parramatta wharf where it was put on board a ferry bound for the Sydney Opera House.

In a message to the people of Australia, Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi said, ''India is on the verge of creating sporting history. In the 60 years of our independence, this is the first time we are hosting the Commonwealth Games, so it is very special and proud moment for all of us.'' He further added, ''Security
is of paramount importance and will not be compromised under any circumstances. A full proof security system is in place and the just concluded test events served a dual purpose, not only were the facilities tested for compliance to international standards, but it was a trial run for the security agencies in the country.

''Some of the visiting sportspersons have gone on record praising the facilities and security arrangements; this is a testimony to the efforts in place.''