Rio Mayor: Test Events Ignite Olympic Fever -- ATRadio

(ATR) With less than one year to go,Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes tells Around the Rings that recent test events in Brazil have ignited an Olympic fever among residents.

Paes spoke withATR reporter Aaron Baueron the heels of a visit from the IOC Coordination Commission for the 2016 Summer Olympics.Led by Nawal El Moutawakel, commission members met with Brazilian leaders to discuss progress on preparations for the Games.

In speaking with ATR,Paes addressestough issues facing the city on the road to the Games including big projects ahead for Rio 2016, transportation improvements, state and federal funding, crime and water pollution.

The 2016 Summer Olympics open in Rio on Aug. 5. Over 10,000 athletes from 205 countries are expected to compete at the Games.

Organizers say 42 sports will be contested including golf, for the first time since 1904.Rugby sevens is also making its Olympic debut at the Rio Games.

Written and produced byNicole Bennett

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