Commonwealth Games

India ready to host successful Games: Kalmadi, Fennell

Despite the controversies, delays and challenges in the run-up to the Commonwealth Games, India had risen to the occasion and is set to deliver a successful Games, both CGF chief Mike Fennell and Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi said.

Kalmadi, who is also Indian Olympic Association president, also thanked then Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee during whose term India won the bid to host the Commonwealth Games.

Hailing the effort of the Organising Committee in pulling off the spectacular show, CGF supremo Fennell said, “The preparation has been filled with many challenges but the focus was on the competition of athletes. But the OC worked tirelessly to prepare these Games. I commend their efforts in putting together the Games.”

“A big congratulation to the organising committee, may the Games be a tremendous success … Over the next 11 days, we will witness the finest athletes from 71 competing to glory not only in pursuit of medals but friendship,” Fennell said in his address.

Thanking the volunteers for the tireless work, he said, “They worked together in one common view for a succesful Games. Also to the people of Delhi … You have welcomed us with traditional hospitality.

“Athletes have been touched by your kindness and your enthusiasm in being good hosts. friendship can be achieved through true sport in the midst of adversity,” Fennell said.

Kalmadi thanked the 71 Commonwealth countries for keeping faith to India despite the problems the Organising Committee in the run-up to the Games.