Gates open for WIC Media Centre

DOHA, March 11, 2010 – Mr. Lamine Diack, President of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) alongside HE Sheikh Saoud Bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Chairman of the Organising Committee opened the Media Centre of the 13th IAAF World Indoor Athletics Championships Thursday.

Addressing the media Diack said, “The Media Centre is outstanding and is one of the biggest I’ve ever seen.

“The government and officials in Qatar have contributed immeasurably in the swift progress – adopting fruitful strategies and planning is the result of the success of this country.

“The championship venue of Aspire is one of the best in the World, equipped with high-quality and European and Western standards facilities and services.

“We can expect new world records set here, including the one already set by placing the world-class media centre”
HE Sheikh Saoud was visibly pleased with the steady progress and the level of the organisation which he believed was possible only by the continuous efforts of the working committees.

“The level of organisation has exceeded all expectations; it’s the continuous efforts of the working committee that led to the success to this day.

“Thanks to the volunteers who have played a key role in the success of an event and have contributed whole heartedly to portray Qatar’s image on the international map,” said Sheikh Saoud, QOC Secretary General.

The 3,160sqm Main Media Centre will house 280 International and GCC media journalists and photographers.

The Centre comprise 190 work stations for press work area, 80 work stations in the photo area, 130 lockers, 300 pigeonholes, 200 seats at the restaurant, 120 tabled positions at the press tribune, 22 TV commentary positions, 8 dedicated camera positions, 50 seats at the press conference room and 85 screens.

Other facilities involve spider cam, free wi-fi access, 37 cameras, 70 well-trained volunteers and 6 TV feeds.