Through constructive negotiations held during the 117th
International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session in Singapore, the
IOC, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and the Beijing
Organising Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG)
agreed on the relocation of the equestrian events from Beijing to
Hong Kong for the 2008 Olympic Games. The move is based on the best
interests of the competition and the well-being of the
horses.
The IOC is pleased to announce the venue for the equestrian event
during the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games has now been
finalised. said IOC Coordination Commission Chairman Hein
Verbruggen. We are confident there will be a wonderful Olympic
equestrian competition in Hong Kong. The agreement on the location
for the equestrian event means the locations for all Beijing 2008
competitions have now been finalised, allowing for progress in all
areas of Games preparation, continued Verbruggen.
Commenting on the agreement, FEI President HRH the Infanta Doña
Pilar said: BOCOG has assured us that it will provide the best
conditions for the riders and horses in Hong Kong. This has always
been our main objective. We are confident that BOCOG and Hong Kong
will ensure the stage is set for excellent equestrian competition
in Hong Kong, during the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic
Games.
Speaking on behalf of BOCOG, Executive Vice-President Wang Wei
commented: We are delighted that the best possible solution for
the Beijing 2008 equestrian competition has been found. We believe
that it is in the best interests of the competition and the health
of the horses and we are convinced that the Hong Kong venue will
enhance the quality and the excitement of the Games in 2008. BOCOG
will work to ensure the athletes, officials, media and spectators
in Hong Kong know that they are an integral part of the Beijing
Games.
In his role as President of the Hong Kong NOC, Timothy Fok said:
Hong Kong is delighted to have this opportunity to contribute
further to the Olympic Movement. Supporters of equestrian sport can
rest assured that we will do everything we can to host them in the
best possible way. While working hard to welcome the equestrian
competition, we will also ensure that our own athletes continue to
experience the best possible training conditions for their
preparations for the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic
Games.
The relevant stakeholders will jointly establish a working group
that will determine the long-term and positive legacy for
equestrian sport in China. This group will develop an equestrian
training and competition facility, which will be located within a
newly created disease-free zone and will be able to host
international events.