CHICAGO (July 17, 2009) — A Chicago 2016 delegation will attend the International Swimming Federation’s (FINA) World Championships in Rome beginning July 17. Representatives will include Chicago 2016 Chairman and CEO Patrick G. Ryan, Chicago 2016 President Lori Healey, Director of Sport, Venue and Operations Doug Arnot and Olympic gold medalist in swimming Donna de Varona. Robert Fasulo, chief of international relations and Dragomir Cioroslan, director of international strategies and development, from the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) will also be in attendance.

“The FINA World Championship offer elite athletes a chance to compete at one of the sport’s highest levels,” Ryan said. “At Chicago 2016, we enjoy every opportunity to partake in international sport competition and we look forward to sharing our vision for the Games with the many leaders of sport who will be in attendance.”

Chicago is one of four cities bidding for the honor of hosting the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Chicago 2016’s proposed Olympic Aquatic Center will sit in historic Washington Park and will be home to swimming, synchronized swimming, diving, water polo and Paralympic swimming. Athletes will train in separate pools to ensure uninterrupted training.

Competition at FINA’s 13th World Championships will run 17 days from July 17 through August 2. Athletes will compete in swimming, open water, diving, water polo and synchronized swimming events. The World Championships are held every two years.

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About Chicago 2016
Chicago 2016 is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose mission is to seek the privilege of hosting the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Chicago. The committee’s board consists of business, civic, athletic, cultural and academic leaders representing Chicago and the surrounding Midwest region. Patrick Ryan serves as the organization’s chairman and CEO.

Contact:
Chicago 2016 Media Line
+1 312-861-4826
media@chicago2016.org