Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer, who is heading the Austrian delegation in Guatemala where the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will elect a host city for the 2014 Winter Olympic Games, and President Heinz Fischer, speaking at a joint news conference with other top bid officials, highlighted Austria’s winter sports tradition and pledged to fight until the “last second” to win the bid.
According to the Associated Press Fisher said “I believe that Austria, in particular Salzburg, has a proposal for the Winter Olympics that is unmatchable and unsurpassable”. He added that Austria has “decades of experience”.
Gusenbauer said Austria was one of the most secure countries in the world and could “guarantee safe Games”.
He also said that Austria’s federal government was fully behind the bid and he believed the country had the necessary enthusiasm and authenticity to pull off an event that was innovative and would boost the Olympic movement, reports the Associated Press.
Gusenbauer said, “Salzburg offers a good concept, experienced organizers, excellent infrastructure…and something money can’t buy – a wonderful atmosphere, sold-out sports events, great experience and hospitality”.
He added that he was arriving in Guatemala late Saturday for a last-minute lobbying offensive. “Using all our strength and Austrian charm we’ll hopefully be able to convince the last skeptics”.
