Countdown to Beijing Olympics begins

Countdown to Beijing Olympics begins

Almost 100 years ago New Zealand sent its first athlete to an Olympic
Games; in 2008 New Zealand will be sending its 1000th.

Today sees the start of the one-year countdown to the Olympic Games in
Beijing.

New Zealand Olympic Committee Secretary General, Barry Maister, said New
Zealand had forged a proud Olympic history during the past 100 years.

He said that household names such as Jack Lovelock, Peter Snell, John
Walker, Ian Ferguson, Danyon Loader and the Evers-Swindells made up only
a fraction of the nearly 1000 Olympians who have proudly represented New
Zealand at Olympic Games.

"Every athlete who has represented New Zealand at an Olympic Games has a
story to tell.

"We're a small nation with a great Olympic tradition. And with just 365
days to go until the Beijing Olympics, this campaign is entering an
exciting phase.

"Now is the time for New Zealanders to start getting behind the 2008
Games."

Chef de Mission Dave Currie, who is currently in Beijing, said progress
on the ground was advanced, as were New Zealand's preparations for the
Games.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee, and the large number of aspiring
athletes, have already put in significant preparation, Mr Currie said.

"The hard work will continue right up until the Games finish on 24
August 2008.

"But there is still a lot to achieve ahead for the Games Team as we
enter the 12-month countdown.

"We're planning to take our biggest ever New Zealand team to compete in
Beijing. This could include up to 300 athletes and support staff.
Preparations have been underway for well over a year.

"We're ready for this final phase. Bring on Beijing."

New Zealand is actively taking part in preparations in Beijing including
being involved in a number of test events.

Highlights of the 12-month countdown include the selection of the
athletes who will go to Beijing. This will occur in the first half of
2008.

Ends

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