Excerpt of a Press Release From the International Olympic Committee (IOC):
Beijing 2008 Olympics: On track with bid assurances materialising26 October 2006
The IOC also announced that, as part of its zero tolerance approach to fighting doping, the number of tests will be significantly increased. Final numbers are to be confirmed, but are expected to be around 4,500, a 25 per cent increase on Athens 2004. The IOC also confirmed that the IOC Executive Board has agreed to the competition schedule for the Beijing Games.
Hein Verbruggen noted that, “After a thorough consultation process, the IOC Executive Board has approved a final version of the competition schedule which sees a spread of events throughout the day, with some finals in the morning, and some in the evening. There can never be a perfect ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution which suits each and every stakeholder equally, but the IOC decision has endeavoured to find the best balance for the Olympic Movement as a whole.â€
A Statement from USA Swimming Executive Director Chuck Wielgus Regarding the IOC Decision to Change the 2008 Olympic Swimming Schedule in Beijing:
New Schedule will Feature Prelims in the Evening and Finals in the Morning Local Time in Beijing26 Oct 2006
This is a great opportunity for our sport to be showcased to the North American television audience during the first nine days of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.The live prime time exposure is something that can only benefit the sport of swimming, and enhance the public profile of our sport’s top athletes.
The IOC’s decision to announce this nearly two years prior to the Olympic Games ensures a level playing field for all athletes. No matter what the schedule, our athletes will be ready to swim their best when their best is needed.