OSAKA — Speaking at the final daily news briefing of the 2007 IAAF World Athletics Championships on Sunday at Nagai Stadium, IAAF President Lamine Diack summarized the feelings of thousands of people here.
In short, Diack eloquently celebrated the spirit of athleticism, international camaraderie and competition.
"I am very proud that we gathered together in Osaka, 200 countries from every corner of the world; 1,978 athletes, 928 women and 1,050 men shared a common goal of becoming the best, and the level of performances we have seen has been simply phenomenal," said Diack. "Best of all, I believe that we have had so much excellent competition and close finishes, that TV viewers all over the world have been able to taste the drama and excitement of top class athletics.