IOC approves Fitzroy River for Olympic competitions — ABC News Australia
The International Olympic Committee has approved the staging of rowing and canoe sprint competitions on the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, Australia. The decision was made after several months of heated debate over the location, ABC News Australia reports.
Completion of the IOC assessment
Premier David Crisafulli said that the IOC had completed its assessment of the venue. According to him, the Fitzroy River successfully passed the review, and approval of the location has now been formally finalized.
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The IOC's approval was preceded by support for an independent technical assessment of the Rockhampton Flatwater course from the international federations World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide.
Controversy over the location
The choice of the Fitzroy River sparked controversy over the current, the length of the water course, and the presence of crocodiles in the river. Despite these concerns, Olympic rowing and canoe sprint disciplines are to take place on the Fitzroy.
