BEIJING 2008 - SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES NEWS           

Ever since July 11, 2001 when the People’s Republic of China was awarded the 2008 Summer Olympic Games, all have wondered how well this country would be able to rise to the challenge in pulling-off a successful 17-day mega-competition.   It wasn’t too long ago that China was still entrenched firmly in its Communist era ways.  However, around the turn of the century, China firmly entered the world’s limelight with its entry into the World Trade Organization in 2001 and its concentrated focus on human rights.  These progressions, among others, improved its stature in the world community, meriting the attention of the IOC and its approval of China to host these Games.

Now, with the Olympic Games about two years away, this country, with 1.3 billion inhabitants (third largest in the world) is busily  readying itself to host the XXIX Olympiad from August 8 – 24, 2008 in Beijing, the capital city.  With this IOC approval, the Chinese government soon mobilized, propelled its planning, and began construction on venues, housing, and transportation – gearing up for the millions of visitors who will descend onto Beijing. 

 The Beijing 2008 web site shows the plans for the competition venues – most located in the metropolitan Beijing area. It is expected that the existing subway system will be lengthened and modernized to accommodate travelers to the various venues.  Furthermore, the bus system is expected to be improved in shuttling spectators efficiently throughout the city too – notwithstanding traffic conditions.  Construction is progressing at these sites in the fabrication of  arenas, courts, tracks, etc.   Recent budget tightening has caused the BOCOG (Beijing Olympic Committee for the Olympic Games) to scale-back its plans for ornate structures – replaced by austere, functional and “security-conscious” buildings.   China looks forward to opening its doors to the world and showcasing their country, culture, and people.