The Site of the 1999 World Games

We congratulate both THE NETHERLANDS and THE CITY OF TILBURG for having put forward such a well - balanced and beautifully presented bid. We look forward to a very happy 1999 Games.

INTRODUCTION We are a democratic organisation and I thought our members should have the opportunity to see the criteria used when selecting the host country for the World Games.

1. Administration The efficiency of the administration is crucial. Much depends on the leadership and the closeness of the components which are involved eg. linkage between WTGF and national body, between national body and personages on the LOC (local organising committee) and its chairperson, between the LOC and the TOWN (Mayor etc.) the sponsors, etc. Well organised games are the result of a massive co-operative effort but there must be a clear leader and defined chain of command.

2. Finance Evidence that the NATIONAL ORGANISING BODY can raisethe very large sums of money involved. Our contract is with them in the first instance. Vague promises are not enough. Where are their sources, let us meet them, how much is the city willing to donate directly. Are they aware of a budget which in 1999 may well be $2,000,000? The cost to competitors must not exceed aproximately $350 per person.

3. Sporting Facilities The acceptable limits are well covered in our guide book. Spectator facilities, areas for refreshment, proximity of one sport to another and the general appearance of the facilities and their management are the key issues. We recollect some unsuitable ones in the past and our numbers increase.

4. Accomodation Two thousand or more people need to be housed and fed. In addition the Banquet poses its own problems. Wide separation of the participants in small groups must be avoided, camaraderie must be encouraged but the standard of accommodation must be decent. Families are involved.

5. Transport This is always a problem. The shorter the distance between sporting venues and accommodation the better. Lots of smaller vehicles running frequently are better than large ones.

6. Accessibility Ease of getting to the country and city are factors. Will the airport accept Jet aircraft, Roads, Traffic, Customs and Immigration.

7. Medical Input A medical figure of either national or international stature must be deeply involved, and not just as a figurehead. He or she must personally give this commitment to the council. The medical care facilities for non serious and very serious accidents or events must be satisfactory.

8. Communication Ease of communication between the organising bodies, the WTGF and the outside world must be good. As must the organisation for receipt of messages and communications from participants in all corners of the globe.

9. Very Special Need For Increased Organ Donation This is self explanatory. Japan is a prime example of a country where such a need is particularly in evidence. Sadly, most countries are in great need but some more than others.

10. Ability To Create Awareness Is there a mechanism already in place or planned which will act to achieve the main purpose of the games? Are there proper plans with named people or organisations?

11. Public Relations In General Has the organisation in question experience and results in the field of public relations or are they starting afresh?

12. Climate Are climatic conditions likely to make the venue unsafe for the participants at the time of the year selected?

Drawing by Stephanie Theobold (Australian Team 1995)