City promises 'unique vision' in Olympic letter
In the high-stakes game of Olympic poker, Chicago has officially pulled up a chair at the table. In a letter sent last week to international officials, organizers here promise a "unique vision and unmatched passion" in hosting the 2016 event.
Just how big a bankroll Chicago will need to win is unclear. The Chicago committee is also holding its cards close to the vest regarding details of staging the Games, saying the public will not get a look at its bid book until February 2009. The winning city will be announced in October 2009.
Chicago officials said Tuesday it's possible the International Olympic Committee will want more public guarantees above the $500 million already pledged but dismissed such questions as speculation. "Anything's possible. I can't predict what the IOC will do," said Chicago 2016 chairman Pat Ryan.
(AP)
(Brian Jackson/Sun-Times)
Ryan and Mayor Daley, appearing at City Hall to announce the application letter to the IOC in Switzerland, said they were not concerned that the state guarantee of $150 million has yet to be signed by Gov. Blagojevich.
The letter from the United States Olympic Committee to IOC president Jacques Rogge officially establishes Chicago as a bidder for the Summer Games.
Chicago's next step is by January to answer 100 pages or so of questions regarding how it would present the Games. The bid books will be submitted to the IOC by Feb. 12, 2009.
Contributing: Fran Spielman