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2150 accredited (of which 1500 athletes) from 178 nations and five continents have pre-registered for “Südtirol 2009”. That is more than at any WC before. But there is more. 2160 beds in 31 lodging alternatives will turn Bressanone/Brixen into a true athletes’ village. “The level of anticipation is great. Also South Tyrol’s businesses have grasped the importance of this event and are proactively supporting the Organizing Committee. Another indication of the local support was given when all 500 volunteering spots were filled within days and long before the start of the actual event.” says OC President Rudi Rienzner. Even Bressanone/Brixen’s schools have started to prepare for this meet six month ago. As part of the initiative “The School in WC Fever” the students of several schools have prepared art projects on all participating nations which are shown in window shops and public entities throughout the city. However, logistics continues to be the biggest challenge. “We are bombarded with a range of requests from all over the world. Which comes at no surprise given the number of countries participating.” adds Event Manager Stefano Andreatta. Feeding all these visitors is part of the logistical challenge. 5000 meals have to be prepared daily in five different cafeterias. That in itself requires a very detailed plan. The new track and field stadium at the south of the city has been successfully inaugurated this past weekend. “The international Brixia Meeting for youth qualifications was a successful test run. But there is still a lot to get done. Each day matters.” says Mr. Andreatta. There are a few open construction projects. The warm-up area will be added to the stadium complex on June 15^th, and the stands will be enlarged to hold another 5000 spectators. Journalists from all over the world will be visiting Bressanone/Brixen, home to 21,000 residents, from July 8^th to 12^th. The next Usain Bolt and Jelena Isinbajewa might win one of the 40 medal events. Also local South Tyroleans Matteo Didioni, Giada Busoli and Marion Kastl are still trying to qualify. The decision is due on June 22^nd. Rai Sport Più will broadcast daily for four hours on the World Youth Championships “Südtirol 2009”.