Will Broxbourne host the White Water Slalom for London Olympics?
The BBC is reporting today that work is starting on the Olympic standard Canoe Slalom and White Water Rafting Centre in Cardiff Bay.
Crane starts £13m White water canoe centre
Cardiff Bay White Water Slalom Course
It may be simply dipping a paddle into the water, but at a time of economic uncertainty, the suggestion by Cardiff Council leader that “It would be great for Wales if this facility could be used for the finals of the London 2012 Olympics” does illustrate the potential risk to Broxbourne as the venue for the London 2012 White Water Slalom.
Broxbourne of course is situated in the Lea Valley and not too far from London, so athletes would not have to travel too far from the Olympic Village. However with the Governments intention of spreading the economic benefits of the Olympics around the country, a change of plan cannot be entirely ruled out. Particularly when the economic climate is considered and work will not be starting on the Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre for some months.
The Cardiff Bay development does look like a fantastic facility Wales. It will be fantastic for the long term success of Canoe and Kayak white water slalom sport in the UK to have several World Class facilities around the country.
January 9th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
If Wales want an Olympic event then they should apply as did London