Tourism for the Games

Page published: 30 September 2011

The preparations, impact and legacy behind 2012.

10.8 million tickets, 20 million trips on public transport, 10,500 athletes and 20,000 media organisations are just some of the incredible statistics behind London 2012.

They were revealed by the Deloitte’s London 2012 Sponsorship Manager, Danny Bowerin, speaking at a leading conference hosted by Bournemouth University’s prestigious School of Tourism.

‘Tourism for the Games’ brought academics, business owners and professionals together to look at the preparations, impact and legacy behind such a colossal event.

“Maximising commercial opportunities” was Danny’s top recommendation for businesses, as well consideration of HR resources, transport and infrastructure among other factors.

Particularly interesting for local delegates were the presentations by John Tweed, CEO of Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, and Duncan Flint from Weymouth and Portland 2012 Operations Group. Between them they outlined the vast preparations that have taken place to ready the site for hosting the sailing events next year. This includes redevelopment of the slipways, shoreline, buildings and boat parks as well as working closely with local residents to alleviate concerns over crime, traffic, road closures and litter.

But the highlight of the event was undoubtedly Tim Lawler from SportsAid’s interview with young athletes Africa, Georgia and Matt, who spoke of their intense training regimes, their hopes for the future and the support given to them by SportsAid, who inspire and support young athletes.

Each presentation can be seen on the conference website.

More information about Bournemouth University’s research in this field can be found by visiting the Centre for Event and Sport Research website.

Visit BU’s ‘Insight into 2012’ blog.