Thu, 10 Mar 2005

From:

Athens 2004 chief gets sport award

LAUSANNE, Switzerland: Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, chief organizer of the Athens Olympics, received an award on Tuesday for promoting the role of women in sport.

Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, appearing fit and healthy after rumors of health problems, was cited by the International Olympic Committee in a ceremony at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne.

She was awarded the "Women and Sport" trophy for "her immense contribution to the success of the Athens Games and her inspiring role for other women wanting to get involved in sport and its administration."

"Special congratulations to Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki whose undying inspiration and determination were key in the success of the Athens Games," IOC president Jacques Rogge said, speaking to the guests by conference call.

Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, 49, said the record number of women competing in the Olympics "had a deep impact on the Greek people." --AP