This is a fully developed country that has held over 50 international championships in the last 10 years. If you judge them on the sporting process, they are an excellent choice.

They still must be considered the front-runner.

This is a great morale boost, sporting wise and internationally.

It is a great milestone, at the Melbourne Olympics in 1956 there were just three nations representing Oceania, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

I believe an important responsibility we have is to keep moving the games around the world.

I'm one of those who like to have a North American presence on the board. It's a pity two candidates are coming from the same country. There's a risk they'll split the votes. That would be unfortunate.

Today's decision opens up an opportunity for young athletes in the Marshall Islands to aspire to represent their country at the Olympic Games.

It took time for the buzz to develop. I think it eventually got there. Overall, the games went above expectations. The acid test is always what happens games-time. And, for that, they passed with flying colors.

Beijing is back for a second time with a lot more experience and in a much less aggressive environment than it faced in '93.