February 4, 2005 – The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the
2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) is
encouraged by the confidence expressed in 2010 planning
by IOC President Jacques Rogge.

“We were inspired by the words of Jacques Rogge this
week,” said John Furlong, VANOC chief executive officer.
“His support and encouragement for the progress we’ve
made since the IOC awarded Canada the Games is welcomed
by each member of the VANOC team.”

President Rogge expressed enthusiasm for Canada’s Own
the Podium program saying he supports the initiative to
help raise funds to give Canadian athletes the best
opportunity to reach the top of the medal standings
in 2010.

“The Vancouver 2010 Games will be judged by how well
they are organized,” said Furlong. “But in addition
to well-run Games, Canadians want to celebrate the
achievements of our athletes.”

While in Canada, President Rogge addressed gatherings
in Montreal, Vancouver and Whistler. He met with the
Premiers of Quebec and British Columbia, the Federal
sport minister and the Mayors of Vancouver, Whistler
and Richmond. He received updates from the Canadian
Olympic Committee and toured the existing and
proposed venue sites for the 2010 Olympic and
Paralympic Winter Games.

“President Rogge was given an up to the minute report
on various aspects of VANOC’s planning as we move
towards the five year countdown milestone for the
2010 Games on February 12, 2005,” added Furlong. The
Opening Ceremonies are scheduled on February 12, 2010.

The IOC Coordination Commission for the Vancouver 2010
Winter Games will be in Vancouver in April for its
annual meeting and will receive a detailed update on
VANOC’s plans.

Next month, VANOC will welcome Phil Craven, the
President of the International Paralympic Committee
to Vancouver and Whistler to update him on 2010
Paralympic Games planning.