INTEREST in ticket sales for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games has doubled thanks to the feel-good factor generated by the London Olympics, organisers have claimed.
Those behind the Commonwealth Games said they cannot wait to bring the event to Glasgow, given the huge buzz surrounding London 2012.
The optimism surrounding Team GB's efforts and the sporting excellence on show has led to 29% of Scots saying they would definitely or probably buy a ticket for 2014 – up from 14% in March. Some 41% said their experiences of London 2012 had made them more excited about the Commonwealth Games.
Stars from 71 nations and territories will compete in 2014, with 17 sports showcased. More than 4500 athletes are set to attend, with one million tickets due to be sold.
More than three-quarters of adults (78%) now believe the Games will have a positive effect on Glasgow, with the same proportion believing they will be good for Scotland as a whole.
David Grevemberg, chief executive of Glasgow 2014, said: "Since the start of London 2012 there's been a huge upsurge of interest. People are saying things such as 'the excitement of 2012 makes me wish Glasgow 2014 was happening right away'.
"This is evoking a sense of excitement and pride. It's a real testament to the power of multi-sport events.
"Elite athletes from across the Commonwealth will be breaking records and settling sporting scores. It's our turn next, and we can't wait."
The London event is Team GB's most successful Olympic Games ever with Scots sporting stars offering some unforgettable performances, including Andy Murray's triumph over Roger Federer and the sixth gold medal win of Sir Chris Hoy.
Sir Chris, 36, has said that racing in 2014 in Glasgow, where a velodrome has been built in his name, would be the perfect end to his career.
He added last night: "I've seen what it's like with the home crowd so if I go to Glasgow, with the support up there, it should be fantastic."
Michael Jamieson, from Glasgow, swam the fastest race of his life to secure a silver medal in the 200m breaststroke and Katherine Grainger, of Aberdeen, ended her long wait for Olympic gold by winning the women's double sculls.
Shona Robison, Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport, said: "Scotland's members of Team GB are contributing spectacularly to our success. So it is no surprise this research shows that Team GB's
amazing performances and growing medal haul are increasing people's interest in the forthcoming Commonwealth Games. With the widest sport programme ever, these Games will offer something for everyone and provide lasting sporting benefits across the whole of Scotland."
Glasgow 2014 will be the 20th Commonwealth Games and will be held from July 23 to August 3 that year.
Swimmer David Carry, London 2012 Olympic finalist for Team GB in the 400m freestyle and five times Commonwealth Games medallist for Team Scotland, said: "The biggest thing for me has been the opportunity even before getting here to engage with the public.
"When we compete, they know what's gone into our journey, and they understand."
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