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Flashback #87: Olympic Decision (2009)

As of 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary on January 3rd, the station has begun to reveal (in chronological order) the Top 100 Chicago Sports Stories that have occurred since they first went on the air 20 years ago. Once all 100 of these "flashbacks" have been revealed, fans will be able to vote for which stories they believe are the most significant in the 20 year history of The Score. To see all of the Flashbacks that The Score has posted so far, please visit 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary page.

October 2, 2009 - Olympic Decision

Though Chicago seemed liked a favorite to host the 2016 Summer Olympics, the games ultimately were awarded to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Chicago was competing against Tokyo, Madrid, Spain and Rio de Janeiro to earn the votes of the International Olympic Committee in Copenhagen.

The city of Chicago - despite the lobbying of several celebrities, including President Obama -  wasn't even the runner-up, as it was voted out in the first round of voting by the IOC. Thousands gathered at Chicago's Daley Plaza for the announcement.

"Like in every competition, there can be only one winner," said Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee.

The decision to pursue hosting the Olympics was a mixed one in Chicago. Some thought it would be a great opportunity for the city to show off and generate revenue, while others felt the Olympics would ultimately be an drain on the city's economy.

Reports indicated Chicago 2016, the organization leading the effort to host the games, projected an estimated cost of around $3.8 billion, including a "rainy day" fund of $450 million for unforeseen increases, if the city had won the bid.

The bidding process alone cost the city of Chicago an estimated $100 million.

The Score will continue to release a new Flashback each weekday until they reach 100. Check back tomorrow for a new one, or check out all of the previous Flashbacks: 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary »

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