Beijing organizer sees 2008 Games breaking even
(AP)
Updated: 2006-03-07 08:53

Tu said organizers are considering post-Olympic uses for facilities, taking into account problems confronted by previous hosts. Tu said ideas included turning some venues into exhibition halls, offices or spaces for VIP hospitality venues.

Tu also dismissed accusations that organizers shifted the 2008 equestrian events to Hong Kong for political reasons, saying concern over animal diseases in the Beijing area was the sole reason. Equestrian officials objected for fear of being left out of the Olympic spotlight.

"Politics had nothing to do with it," Tu said. "We tried our best to have them in Beijing, but it simply wasn't possible given the chance of disease."

"Besides," he added, "a few horses alone can't placate the Hong Kong people."