Fit For Purpose

It was fascinating to see the stunning success of the Rio bid in the race to host the 2016 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

There is an excellent article from ‘Inside the Games’ which outlines how the need for preparation, research, alignment and understanding of the client (IOC’s) aspirations were properly undertaken, and ensured that the Rio bid was ‘fit for purpose’.

The London 2012 Games is becoming ever closer and beyond the obligations to build a set of facilities, and to stage a safe and successful Games, London 2012 can only be judged a real success if it too is truly ‘fit for purpose’. For that to happen, the promise that was made at bid stage in Singapore of a post Games legacy must be met, and this remains a challenge.

A strong legacy programme requires a real joined up approach - not just from the key sports agencies but in a cross government context too. There is little evidence that this has yet been grasped and ensured. We are hearing sound bites, but little by way of substantial action. Other key players such as the BBC have a huge potential to make a real difference - just consider the impact of Red Nose Day and Children in Need as effective means of communicating with large audiences that lead to action. Legacy from the 2012 Games must be judged by its success in reaching each and every one of us in a meaningful way and the challenge remains. Interesting perhaps that Olympic sponsor BT have the slogan ‘bringing it all together for London 2012’. In order to create a fitter and healthier nation and to use the London 2012 Games as a trigger towards that ambition, there needs to be clear, consistent and meaningful action from those agencies responsible.