Thursday, April 9, 2009

Rio de Janeiro: Carrying South America’s Flag

Published: April 8, 2009

Highlights: Looking to host South America's first Olympics, the city is touting its natural beauty, but also its proven ability to host big sporting events. The 2007 Pan American Games were held there, but even more important will be the 2014 World Cup. Organizers say hosting the World Cup ensures that infrastructure projects and improvements will be ready for 2016.

Slogan: Live Your Passion

How compact? Nearly 50 percent of the athletes will be within 10 minutes of their training and competition venues, and 73 percent of the venues can be reached in fewer than 25 minutes. The maximum travel time from the Olympic Village to a venue would be 50 minutes.

Venues: Several will be unmistakably Brazilian settings. Beach volleyball will be played on the world-famous Copacabana beach. The sport of rowing and canoe/kayak will be held under the iconic statute of Christ the Redeemer.

Tickets: Opening Ceremony, $200-$1,000; Prime events, $16-$150

Dates: Aug. 5-21; Paralympics held Sept. 7-18

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