IPC Reviews Effect of Christchurch Earthquake on Athletics World Championships

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the Local Organizing Committee are reviewing what effect Saturday’s earthquake in New Zealand has had on Christchurch staging the 2011 IPC Athletics World Championships.

While infrastructure assessments to review the Athletics Stadium and Accommodation facilities take place this week, the IPC is advising all National Paralympic Committees that full planning towards next January’s competition is continuing.

Although too early to tell what impact Saturday’s earthquake 20km to the west of Christchurch has had, IPC’s Chief Executive Officer Xavier Gonzalez, has said the situation is being closely monitored.

He said: “Our thoughts are currently with those affected by this terrible event and we hope that those concerned can return to normal living as soon as possible.

“During this time we are working closely with the Local Organizing Committee to assess what impact Saturday’s quake might have on next January’s Games and we will keep all of our NPC’s updated on the situation.”

Taking place from 21-30 January 2011, the IPC Athletics World Championships are expected to see hundreds of athletes from around the globe compete in one of the last major gatherings before the London 2012 Paralympic Games.