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(ATR) IOC President Jacques Rogge says the newly opened Aquatics Centre for London 2012 is a "masterpiece".
Rogge toured the Aquatics Centre as part of one year to go events for the London Games.
"I was impressed - I have seen so many venues in my life. I had a visual shock when I came in from the top there. Everything [stands out] the harmony, the quality, the innovation, it’s a masterpiece."
Around 300 journalists and broadcasters from all over the world packed into the Aquatics Centre for the official opening.
The venue will host the swimming, diving, synchronised swimming and modern pentathlon competitions.
There was a buzz of excitement in the air with praise for the sleek and modern design by Zaha Hadid that includes a 160 meter long wave shape roof.
For the Olympic Games only, the venue will be a 17,500 capacity arena with two temporary stands adjoined on either side of the building. Those sitting atthe very top of the steep seating incline may have difficulty viewing the entire aquatic events clearly, but venue designers say the view should be clear.
London 2012 chair Sebastian Coe praised the punctuality of the building work and complimented the Olympic Delivery Authority for their work on the Olympic Park.
"With construction now complete on the Aquatics Centre, we are another step closer to the spectacular Olympic Park which will be host to world class sport in 2012.
"After the Games, the venue will become a much-needed swimming facility for London with community use at its heart, epitomizing the spirit of London's bid -a Games which would bring lasting change and encourage people to choose sport.
"Everyone involved can be very proud of this venue and the progress of the Olympic Park as a whole. I congratulate the ODA and their teams who have done a fantastic job," said Coe.
After the Olympics the temporary stands will be removed and the venue will become a 2,500 capacity arena for Stratford, East London to enjoy and to help nurture the future aquatic talent of Great Britain.
British Olympic hopeful Tom Daley will inaugurate the venue by diving into the pool tonight as part of the ‘One Year to Go’ celebrations which also feature a ceremony in Trafalgar Square where Rogge will invite the athletes of the world to come to London.
Written and reported in London by Christian Radnedge.
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