Jacques Rogge’s fleeting visit to India came with some positive words but no promises. “We are happy to hear (Indian Olympic Association president) Suresh Kalmadi say that India is preparing to host the 2020 Olympic Games,” the International Olympic Committe president said on his visit to the ongoing Commonwealth Youth Games here on Thursday. But asked whether India was ready to host an Olympic Games, Rogge shot back saying there was a huge difference in the scale of events.

Adding that he was yet to see the facilities Delhi, the city which plans to bid for the 2020 Games, he said: “It looks like you have the potential for a good bid.”

There were full marks for Pune, though. “I’m very happy and impressed with the infrastructure, crowds and the performances of the athletes at these youth games. It augurs well for the future,” Rogge said.

Meanwhile, Kalmadi, who is also the chairman of the CYG organising committee, waxed eloquent about the Indian athletes’ good showing in all the nine disciples. “A good Commonwealth Youth Games here will lead to a good Commonweath Games in 2010, and that in turn will help us to put up a good 2020 Olympic Games,” said Kalmadi.

Further testing

Rogge reiterated that with the advanced EPO CERA testing been commissioned by WADA, all athletes from Beijing will once again be tested for artificial stimulants. He also expressed his happiness at India getting a WADA-accredited laboratory.