During a visit to Dalmarnock Primary School in the East End he spoke to the pupils about his career and told them that with hard work, focus and determination they all can achieve great things with their lives.

And he should know. Quite simply, Michael Johnson, had an incredible career. He won five Olympic gold medals and was a world champion nine times. He was the first man to win both the 200 m and 400 m races at the same Olympics, accomplishing the feat at the 1996 Summer Olympics. For these reasons, many believe Johnson to be among the greatest athletes of all time.

Speaking in Dalmarnock, Michael Johnson said:

"I think that Glasgow would do a great job of hosting the Commonwealth Games. Glasgow has the 3 key elements of a great Bid – community support, corporate support and a solid plan for the regeneration of the area that will let sport leave a lasting legacy for Scotland."

Derek Casey, Glasgow 2014 Bid Director said:

"Michael Johnson is an athlete who has inspired millions throughout a memorable career. The message that he gave to the young people in Dalmarnock is exactly what we are saying to people about the Bid for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. With hard work, focus and dedication, we can all achieve great things. Not just in sport, but in every aspect of our lives.

"We are all delighted to have him here."

In addition, there are three smaller sports halls for events and community use. Again, the seating within these halls is flexible enough to tailor plans to suit the type of event taking place.

Councillor John Lynch, Executive Member for Cultural and Leisure Services at Glasgow City Council, said: "These will be fantastic new facilities for Glasgow and Scotland that will improve our elite sports performance and attract even more world-class sporting events to Glasgow. The opportunity to improve the health and well-being of the local community through access to state of the art sports facilities underlines the importance of this development, irrespective of the Commonwealth Games bid."

Further Information:

> Glasgow2014.com