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US confident in Athens security
02/07/2004 12:02 - (SA)
Chicago - US Olympic officials reiterated their confidence in the security preparations for the Summer Games in Athens in August following a "high-level" briefing by the US government on Thursday.
Peter Ueberroth, chairperson of the US Olympic Committee (Usoc) board, said he felt "confident" that the Greek authorities had taken all the necessary steps to ensure the safety of US athletes who will participate in this summer's Games.
"I am going to be there for the full Games," he said.
A contingent of 100 US federal agents will be on hand in Athens to provide additional security for the US delegation, and the Usoc plans to be in constant radio contact with team members, said Jim Scherr, the Usoc's acting chief executive officer.
"I think there is some healthy concern about these games," said Scherr, "but the vast majority of these athletes have been overseas competing in the last two years and all have faced these concerns.
"They are pretty well versed in what to expect."
Scherr was speaking following a Usoc board of directors' meeting in Chicago on Thursday during which members of the recently revamped board were given an update on security measures by unspecified US federal officials.
Greece is spending €1bn on security, and has recruited 70 000 officers to protect 16 000 athletes and officials and thousands of volunteers, journalists and spectators at the August 13-29 Games.
On a separate note, Ueberroth praised New York city's bid for the 2012 Olympic Games, saying it was extremely well-thought out.
Ueberroth, who had just returned from IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, where he had a chance to review the competing bids, said he concluded it was "game over" after perusing the Big Apple's submission.
The sports facilities cited in the bid would have long-term value for New Yorkers and visitors to the city, he noted, and would not become white elephants as they have in other cities which have hosted the games.
- AFP
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