The Olympic sailing competition has received high praise from Games organizers for its smooth operations.

The organization behind all the Olympic races over the past 12 days has been widely applauded by several parties including the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), and political and media leaders from home and abroad, says Zang Aimin, executive vice-president of the Sailing Committee in Qingdao of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games.

Despite heavy rains and strong winds on Aug 17, the medal races of Yngling, Finn, and 49er were carried out well, demonstrating Qingdao's fine organizational preparation and cooperation between domestic and international staff teams.

Urs Lacotte, executive general secretary of the IOC, gave thumbs-up to the city. "Qingdao Olympic Sailing Committee worked well with IOC and ISAF, ensuring a wonderful sailing regatta," he said.

Lacotte said he was also impressed with the strong show of support from the entire city and wide participation of the masses, which made the event possible.

More than 80,000 spectators from home and abroad watched the Games on the spectator bank, dolling out top grades to the service and facilities there.

Facilities in Qingdao's Olympic Village, which was home to 62 fleets and provided services in 17 languages, also received smiles all around.

A Chilean delegation led by Jaime Pizarro, Chile's deputy sports minister, gave high marks to the village, with the minister firmly believing in Qingdao's complete success in holding the event.

Security was also well under control. The sailing center was protected by using a multi-dimensional defense mechanism, monitoring the area by land, sea, air and from underwater nearby. Security officers also patrolled the area during all hours of day and night.

A British delegation came to visit the center, exchanging ideas with the staff there and acquiring experience for their country, which will host the 2012 London Olympic Games.

"We hope to have more chances to communicate with our Chinese colleagues here and bring the valuable experiences back to London," one of the delegates said.

About 13,000 Games-time, city and social volunteers participated in running Qingdao's sailing competition. One hundred volunteer families also contributed by hosting foreigners, charity-themed events and promoting cultural exchanges between China and other countries and regions.

Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme has attended several Olympic Games and has also worked previously as an IOC member. "I have full confidence in a successful Olympic sailing competition in Qingdao," he said. "That will greatly improve the city's reputation across the globe."

(China Daily August 20, 2008)