IOC Praises Nanjing Progress

(ATR) Nanjing is "well on track" to staging successful Youth Olympic Games, says the IOC Coordination Commission for 2014.

Chairman Alexander Popov led the inspection team on its fourth tour of the Chinese host city this week, wrapping up a three-day visit at the 15-months-to-go mark until the YOG.

"NYOGOC’s vision for the second Summer Youth Olympic Games is now really taking shape, and the Coordination Commission congratulates it on its progress," the Russian said Thursday in his closing comments from Nanjing.

"As we start climbing the hill toward the final countdown, the coming months will be crucial for YOG preparation, and will present NYOGOC with key opportunities to let the youth of the world know that the YOG spirit is coming to Nanjing and that all are welcome."

According to the IOC, members of the Coordination Commission were "particularly pleased" with the level of detailed preparation as organizers approach the operational readiness phase.

In the meantime, NYOGOC will use the 2013 Asian Youth Games as a chance to test the event schedule, operation plans and other functional areas exactly one year in advance of the YOG, an idea welcomed by the IOC.

Popov and company also congratulated NYOGOC on other recent milestones such as its submission and approval of a venue master plan, launch of a new website, continued engagement with domestic sponsors and TOP partners as well as the unveiling of NANJINGLEGE, the official mascot of Nanjing 2014.

Among the IOC’s recommendations for NYOGOC moving forward are to build on the steps already taken toward a successful Culture and Education Program as well as to share with all stakeholders that Nanjing will be ready to host great Games "and that a warm welcome awaits them in this beautiful Chinese city" next year.

Written by Matthew Grayson.

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