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Johnson endorses Glasgow bid

Michael Johnson, the 400 metres world record-holder, has given his support to Glasgow’s bid to bring the 2014 Commonwealth Games to Scotland.

During a visit to Dalmarnock Primary School in the East End of the city, pictured, Johnson spoke to the pupils about his career and told them that with hard work, focus and determination they all can achieve great things with their lives.

And he should know. Michael Johnson won five Olympic gold medals and was world champion nine times. He was the first man to win both the 200m and 400m at the same Olympics.

Speaking in Dalmarnock, Johnson said:

“I think that Glasgow would do a great job of hosting the Commonwealth Games. Glasgow has the 3 key elements of a great Bid – community support, corporate support and a solid plan for the regeneration of the area that will let sport leave a lasting legacy for Scotland.”

Derek Casey, Glasgow 2014 Bid Director said: “Michael Johnson is an athlete who has inspired millions throughout a memorable career. The message that he gave to the young people in Dalmarnock is exactly what we are saying to people about the bid for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. With hard work, focus and dedication, we can all achieve great things. Not just in sport, but in every aspect of our lives.

“We are all delighted to have him here.”

Scotland has only twice hosted the Commonwealth Games, which have been staged every four years since 1930. Both occasions saw the Games held in Edinburgh, with a memorable event in 1970 and a boycott- and Robert Maxwell-marred edition staged in 1986.

The Commonwealth Games Federation will vote on the 2014 venue next November. Glasgow’s rivals for 2014 are Halifax, Canada, and Abuja, Nigeria. The next Commonwealth Games will be staged in New Delhi in 2010.

For more on Glasgow’s bid, click here.