IOC: Preparation for Beijing Winter Olympics 'excellent'

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IOC president Thomas Bach spoke highly of Beijing's preparation for the Olympic Winter Games 2022, while also praising the innovative concept of allowing all people to participate in sports adapted by the 13th Chinese National Games during his visit to Beijing on Saturday.

In the afternoon, Bach visited the LeSports Center, the chosen location for the Big Air events and headquarters for the Beijing 2022 Organizing Committee.

Bach described the preparations for the Olympic Winter Games as "really excellent." He pointed out that the progress is steady and the cooperation with the IOC is seamless. "And you can see the great projects with regard to the development of winter sports in China, attracting hopefully at the end 300 million of Chinese to winter sports."

(Above) The amazing scenery at Xiaohaituo Mountain in Beijing's northwestern Yanqing County is covered in snow. Xiaohaituo Mountain features abundant water resources and perfect natural conditions for winter snow. /Tecent Photo

The BOCOG (Beijing Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games) headquarters he visited is a regeneration based on an old steel factory of Beijing. Bach was impressed by the sustainable development of having the urban rejuvenation in the industrial region.

Before the end of the visit, Bach mentioned the 13th National Games soon to kick off in Tianjin, which allows both athletes and amateurs to participate. He will also be at the opening ceremony on Sunday night.

"This is great progress because in our times sport cannot wait anymore, that people are coming to sport. Sport has to go to the people, has to be inclusive. Therefore I think we will see a great event, and I wish the organizers good luck and great success for the National Games of China," Bach said.

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Source(s): Xinhua News Agency