WHAT I LEARNT IN THE OLYMPIC STADIUM VISIT. Paralympic Games Financial Costs Countries involved

PARALYMPIC GAMES The Paralympic Games are the world's second largest sports event after the Olympic Games. In 1952 two nations and 130 athletes took part. In athletes from 23 nations participated with medals presented in 57 events. Britain finished second behind Italy. In London in ,200 athletes from 160 countries are expected to attend with 471 medal events on the programme. At London sports will be contested over 11 days of competition. There will be 6,000 media and broadcasters watching, 1,200 technical officials ensuring fair play and a total of 1.5 million tickets on sale. London 2012 will be the most accessible Games ever for athletes and spectators.

FINANCIAL COST OF It is estimated the cost of the Olympic village could cost up to £1billion. This is £1billion that cannot be spent on alternative investment schemes like transport and education in London. If taxpayer has to step in, the Olympics will lose part of its £2.2bn contingency fund. The investment is short term. Many facilities can only be used for the 3 week duration of the Olympics.

COUNTRIES TAKING PART Nations participating205 (estimated) Athletes participating10,500 (estimated)