DENVER—
When the International Olympic Committee voted Friday on which city would host the 2016 Summer Olympics, Chicago, the so-called 'Second City', finished fourth -- a setback that some observers believe may pay long-term dividends for the Mile High City and its potential future to host the 2022 Winter Games.Had Chicago hosted the 2016 Games, the International Olympic Committee would have been far less likely to award the 2022 Winter Games to another American city.
Despite then newly-elected Gov. Bill Ritter's declaration that Denver was pushing to host the 2018 Winter Games, the U.S Olympic Committee long ago ruled out making a bid.
"It's their process to run, their business to decide if they're ever going to put forth a summer or a winter bid," said Sue Baldwin with the Metro Denver Sports Commission. "And all along they've said, there's not a winter 2018 bid -- we're supporting the 2016 Chicago summer piece."
But, following Monday's vote, Ritter and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper issued the following statement: "
"We plan to work closely with the U.S. Olympic Committee, Gov. Bill Ritter and our community to explore what opportunities might exist to once again showcase our world-class city on an international stage," said Hickenlooper.
"Our interest in attracting and hosting world-class athletic events, including the Olympics, remains extremely high and we will follow the guidance of the USOC when it comes to any Olympic efforts," Ritter said.
