Thaindian News

New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) After raising concerns on safety and hygiene, Australian and New Zealand were extremely happy with the Athletes’ Village and also confirmed their participation for the Oct 3-14 Games.
Australian Commonwealth Games Association (ACGA) chief executive Perry Crosswhite was happy with the facilities at the Games Village that was earlier termed filthy and unlivable by the delegates.

“We are quite happy with the Village and we are looking forward to the Games. The Australian contingent is coming. Absolutely, it’s thumbs up to the Games,” Crosswhite said Friday.

Crosswhite wrote a letter to the 400-strong Australian contingent, reassuring that the security at the Village and the other venues is acceptable.

“Overall, the impression gained by myself and our team headquarters members is that Games security is extensive and well organised at the Games village,” Crosswhite said.

“From all reports, this is the same situation at the Games venues and the airport and along the transport routes. Our position regarding Games security remains unchanged and we believe the security risk position for our team is at an acceptable level.”

The New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) also confirmed their participation Friday.

NZOC President Mike Stanley and Secretary General Barry Maister also went round the Games Village and briefed the NZOC board about the positive developments and the team will leave for Delhi Sep 28.

“We were aware of all the developments. The situation was indeed grim but it has certainly changed a lot following intervention by the state and the central governments,” he said.