IOC president Jacques Rogge shed tears for the death of Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili following a crash in training in a brief conference on Friday.

The Olympic chief, appeared wearing black tie, said:"I have no words to say what we feel. We have consoled the National Olympic Committee of Georgia. We have contacted the family."

He added that he also had a phone call with Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvilito, who is attending the Games.

"We are taking all action to show sympathy to the athlete," he said.

Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili had a serious crash in the final run of the official training for the men's singles on Friday in Whistler.

The 21-year-old luger lost control of his sled, went over a wall, and slammed into a metal support beam. Observers said his sled was travelling at a speed of about 150 kmph.

He was knocked unconscious and treated onsite by medical staff. Then, he was immediately air-lifted to a Whistler hospital where he died.

"Sorry, it's difficult to remain controls," Rogge opened his remark with tears. "Today is a very sad day... He had a dream to parcitipate Olympic Games, he trained hard..."

VANOC CEO John Furlong also expressed his condolence in the press conference. "We are heart broken and in no words. I'm so sorry to be in the position to report it to you. It's not somthing I was prepared for."

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