Fennell condemns village preparations

Commonwealth Games Federation chief Mike Fennell of Jamaica says the Athletes Village is in a ‘seriously compromised condition’ just day before it opens to athletes arriving for the October 3 to 14 New Delhi Games in India.



Fennell says the village, which opens to athletes on Thursday, has been a concern since federation officials visited the residential zone on September 15. He further says he had written to the Indian government urging immediate action because many issues remain unresolved.



Fennell says the advance parties from the international Commonwealth Games Associations had been impressed with the international zone and main dining areas.



However, he says the condition of the residential zone has shocked the majority of Commonwealth Games Association members who are in Delhi.



The buildup to the games has been plagued by problems with construction of venues and infrastructure falling way behind schedule. This has caused concern over the safety and quality of the buildings.



Jamaica will take part in nine disciplines at the games. The Jamaica Olympic Association has named a contingent of 86 athletes and 40 officials.



Jamaica will participate in nine disciplines, track and field, badminton, boxing, cycling, netball, shooting, squash, swimming and table tennis.