International Golf Federation president Peter Dawson has concerns over preparations for the 2016 Olympics
International Golf Federation president Peter Dawson has expressed concerns over preparations for the 2016 Olympics.
Last Updated: 26/03/14 4:22pm
Dawson believes the proposed test event a year before the Rio Games is unlikely to happen after recently visiting the site and finding construction of the golf course at Reserva de Marapendi was behind schedule.
His comments come a week after the International Olympic Committee sent a clear warning to the Brazilian organisers over the lack of progress in completing venues for the 2016 Games.
Dawson said: "We are not satisfied. I was down there just recently and, while the design of the course looks really good, the progress with the construction is not where we want it to be.
"There have been meetings held last week in Rio to revise the plan, increase manpower and facilities which are designed to bring the project back on track.
"There have been so many revisions to the plan it's quite hard to say how far behind they are but I think we are going to struggle to get a test event a year before the Games.
"I'm not writing that off completely but we have to recognise that might be difficult. However, I still think it will be ready in time for the Olympics.
"Let me say that golf is not on its own here. Just the other day the International Olympic Committee issued a warning notice to their co-ordination commission, so this is not restricted to golf; Rio have got quite a few challenges ahead of them to get things done in time.
"But we are new to the Olympic Games, maybe this is normal. However, I think it's particularly disappointing given how long ago we got in amongst this and got things started. I wouldn't say I'm disturbed at this point and I'd much rather we were further ahead and that is concerning.
"There are other courses in Rio but there is no Plan B at present because I don't think we'll need one."