Winds a major concern

Officials admitted yesterday that if the gale-force winds which caused disruption in the area of the Olympic Stadium occurred…

Officials admitted yesterday that if the gale-force winds which caused disruption in the area of the Olympic Stadium occurred once the Olympic Games get under way, delays could be inevitable.

Following several hours of windy conditions, Sydney Games 2000 spokeswoman Liz Smilie said: "If that were to occur during the Games it would be a decision for venue managers and the international associations organising the events.

"Obviously they would have to take into account the number of people unable to get into the stadium. But if there were to be delays or cancellations that would be a decision for them."

Winds reached a peak of 40 m.p.h. at lunchtime yesterday, causing the cancellation of train services and evacuation from several sites.

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