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Letters to the Editor
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SIR - I am quite excited to hear that Beijing's bid for the 2008 Olympic Games was called "high quality" by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
It's obvious that Beijing is the leader, though the cities were not ranked or given specific marks. As one of most competitive candidate cities, China has seen great changes in recent years. I totally agree with the IOC Evaluation Commission's conclusion: a 2008 Games in Beijing will "leave a unique legacy to China and to Sport."
Indeed, Beijing can organize an excellent Games. Aided by massive financial and political support from the Chinese Government, Beijing has proposed a massive movement for the Olympics. An investment of about $20 billion will add 22 new gymnasiums and stadiums along with vast swathes of green space. The Chinese Government has the ability to combat the possible challenges caused by population and economic growth in the period leading up to 2008.
Besides the full support of the Chinese Government, the Chinese people have shown great enthusiasm for the bid. Hosting the games is an affirmation of our country's rise to world prominence. Winning the Olympics is matter of national pride, a symbol of China's acceptance as a leading player on the world stage.
Chinese gymnasts, table tennis players and shooters took 28 gold medals in Sydney, placing China in third place behind Russia and the United States. The success of Chinese athletes at the Sydney Games, of course, has only increased our country's enthusiasm for sports and ensured our ranking among the top sporting nations.
Cui Xin, Beijing
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