Celebrations, controversies as Olympics enter final week

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

BEIJING (AFP) — The pollution has lifted, roaring crowds have spurred China to the top of the medals table and athletes have offered warm praise over the near flawless organisation of the Beijing Olympics.

Michael Phelps' historic swimming campaign, the pure joy of Chinese athletes winning home-town gold and Usain Bolt's extraordinary victory in the 100m sprint have been just some of the many reasons to celebrate the Games.

But as the Olympics enter their final week, question marks remain over the spirit in which they have been held -- and whether controls enforced by China's Communist rulers will ultimately overshadow the nation's coming out party.

Wire fences and countless security personnel have sealed off the Olympics from the general public, while the...