IOC gives Beijing a rave review Beijing received top marks for their 'stunning' venues and efficient organisation from the IOC this week at the end of three-day inspection tour in preparation for the games. Hein Verbruggen, head of the International Olympic Committee co-ordination commission for the Beijing Games, said: 'We cannot think of any other word than stunning when we described the Olympic Stadium and the Aquatic Centre. I think the Bird's Nest stadium will be the future icon of the city like the Opera House is for Sydney.' He also said they were extremely pleased with the organisational aspects. 'We are dealing with a high quality organising committee, really excellent people,' he said. 2008 torch relay to focus on China Hein Verbruggen said Beijing would be wasting a great opportunity if the main emphasis of the 2008 Olympic torch relay was not on China. The Beijing organisers are currently finalising their plan, which is likely to include a trip to the top of Mount Everest, before it is presented to the IOC. The original plan was to follow the ancient Silk Road but continuing instability in parts of the Middle East may force a rethink. 'They want to go abroad and we certainly will not stop them. However, I think it would be a tremendously missed opportunity if the emphasis of their torch relay was not on their own country,' Verbruggen said. Smog and food quality are key concerns Smog and food quality in Beijing are the biggest concerns for the Australian athletes as they gear up for the 2008 games. Officials have begun alerting athletes of the health risks they will encounter in the Chinese capital. Following a recent trip to Beijing, head swimming coach Alan Thompson told the Australian press: 'Smog was a problem and, in particular, respiratory complaints like nasal and bronchial irritation. So we will take sprays and may wear cotton face masks.'
