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Athens is Scene of Top Archery Contest in World - 2003-08-10


The top men's archers in the world have competed in the second day of a pre-Olympic test event in Athens, Greece.

The event was held Sunday in the marble stadium that hosted the first modern Olympiad in 1896, and the athletes were treated to a day of calm winds. On Saturday, women archers battled strong winds that forced an extra effort to flex their bows. Although the gusts were not fierce enough to cancel or alter the women's competition, they did blow out a rowing test event that ended Saturday.

More than 100 athletes from 29 countries are taking part in the archery test event in the Panathinaiko stadium. It will also serve as the finish line for the Olympic marathon race. The men and women's archery event ends on August 15.

Concerns are swirling that the seasonal "meltemia" winds could complicate the Olympic homecoming next year for some sports. Athens is hosting a series of test events this month to assess any problems with venues and offer experience for personnel. Other test competitions scheduled this month include equestrian events, beach volleyball, cycling and sailing.

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