INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Oct. 2, 2009 – The International Olympic Committee awarded the 2016 Olympic Games to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during its meetings in Copenhagen, Denmark. The other cities in contention for the 2016 Games were Chicago, Ill., Madrid, Spain, and Tokyo, Japan.
" We want to congratulate Rio on its selection for 2016," said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics.
"The U.S. Olympic movement has benefitted from the programs and plans that were are a part of Chicago’s Olympic bid," said Penny. " The Windy City has become an Olympic city through this process and we look forward to a continued partnership to build on the progress they have made over the past few years. While we are disappointed today, USA Gymnastics extends its heartfelt thanks to the entire bid team of Chicago 2016, especially Mayor Richard M. Daley, Pat Ryan, Doug Arnot, Bill Scherr, and Scott Myers for their tireless efforts and increasing the spirit of Olympism throughout the United States.
"USA Gymnastics especially would like to thank President Obama and the First Lady for their involvement in the bid process," said Penny. "We are grateful that our country’s leader recognizes the important role that Olympic sport plays in the hearts and souls of America’s youth. Their commitment through the final stages was especially important to present America’s bid at the highest level."
Click here to read a statement from USOC Chairman Larry Probst and Acting CEO Stephanie Streeter.